BR112012002098B1 - device for directing a liquid over a plurality of surfaces of a mammal's oral cavity - Google Patents

Abstract

DEVICE TO DIRECT A LIQUID ON A PLURALITY OF SURFACES OF A MAMMALIAN'S CAVITY. The present invention relates to a device (100, 1200) for directing a liquid over a plurality of surfaces of the oral cavity, the device (100, 1200) including a chamber (154, 1254) for keeping the liquid close to the surfaces, the chamber (154, 1254) being defined by the front, rear and base internal walls of the device and the front and rear internal walls each include a plurality of openings (132, 134, 1232, 1234), the devices including additionally a first pipe (146,1246) and a second pipe (148, 1248), a first port (144,1244) and a second port (142, 1242); and means for providing an effective seal of the device within the oral cavity.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to oral treatment devices suitable for domestic use to provide a beneficial effect to a mammal's oral cavity.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] In addition to regular dental examinations by professionals, daily oral hygiene is generally recognized as an effective preventive measure against the onset, development, and / or exacerbation of periodontal disease, gingivitis and / or tooth decay. Unfortunately, however, even the most meticulous individuals dedicated to thorough brushing and flossing practices are often unable to reach, detach and remove food particles, plaques or biofilms located deep in the gums and / or between the teeth. Most individuals do dental cleaning with professionals twice a year to remove tartar deposits.

[0003] For many years products have been designed to facilitate simple cleaning of teeth made at home, although for now a single device that is simple to use and that cleans all surfaces of a tooth and / or gingival or sub-gingival areas simultaneously does not is available. The conventional toothbrush is widely used, although it requires a significant amount of energy to be effective and, in addition, a conventional toothbrush does not properly clean the interproximal areas of the teeth. The cleaning of the areas between the teeth currently requires the use of dental floss, toothpick or some other additional device besides the toothbrush.

[0004] Electric toothbrushes have achieved wide acceptance and although they reduce the application of energy required to use a toothbrush, they are still inadequate to ensure interproximal cleaning of teeth. Other oral irrigators to clean the interproximal area between the teeth are known. However, these devices have a single jet that must be directed to the precise interproximal area involved in order to remove debris. Therefore, these water pump type cleaners typically have significant value for teeth that have orthodontic appliances that often trap large particles of food. It will be understood that if debris and plaques are to be removed from the teeth, a combination of several devices should now be used, which is extremely time-consuming and inconvenient.

[0005] In addition, in order to make these practices and devices effective, a high level of consumer adherence to techniques and / or instructions is required. User-to-user variation in time, cleaning / treatment formula, technique, etc., will affect teeth cleaning.

[0006] The present invention improves one or more of the disadvantages mentioned above with existing oral hygiene devices and methods, or at least provides the market with an alternative technology that is advantageous over the known technology, and can also be used to improve harmful condition or optimize the cosmetic appearance of the oral cavity.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The invention is a device for directing a liquid over a plurality of surfaces of a mammal's oral cavity. The device includes a chamber to hold the liquid close to the plurality of surfaces, the inner space or volume of the chamber being defined and delimited by the internal front and rear walls of the device and an internal base wall of the device, the base wall extending between the anterior and posterior internal walls. The anterior and posterior internal walls each include a plurality of openings, through which the liquid is directed to the surfaces of the oral cavity. The devices further include a first pipe to contain a first portion of the liquid and supply the first portion to the chamber through the openings of said front inner wall, a second pipe to contain a second portion of the liquid and supply the second portion to the chamber through the openings in the rear inner wall. The device further includes a first port for transporting the first portion of liquid to and from the first pipe, a second port for carrying the second portion of liquid to and from the second pipe; and means for providing an effective seal of the device within said oral cavity.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Figure 1 is a schematic drawing of an embodiment of a system using a device according to the present invention;

[0009] Figure 2 is a schematic drawing of an alternative embodiment of a system using a device according to the present invention;

[00010] Figure 3 is a schematic drawing of another alternative embodiment of a system using a device according to the present invention;

[00011] Figure 4 is a schematic drawing of yet another alternative mode of a system using a device according to the present invention;

[00012] Figure 5 is a schematic drawing of a multiple cleaning solution modality of a dental cleaning system using a device according to the present invention;

[00013] Figure 6a is a perspective view of a modality of a reciprocating flow controller;

[00014] Figure 6b is an exploded view of the reciprocating flow controller of figure 6a;

[00015] Figure 6c is a cross-sectional view of the reciprocating flow controller of Figure 6a in its first position;

[00016] Figure 6d is a cross-sectional view of the reciprocating flow controller of figure 6a in its second position;

[00017] Figure 7a is a perspective drawing of a first alternative embodiment of a reciprocating flow controller;

[00018] Figure 7b is a top view of the reciprocating flow controller of figure 7a in its first position;

[00019] Figure 7c is a top view of the reciprocating flow controller of figure 7a in its second position;

[00020] Figure 8a is an exploded view of a second alternative embodiment of a reciprocating flow controller;

[00021] Figure 8b is a perspective drawing of the reciprocating flow controller in figure 8a;

[00022] Figure 8c is a side view of the reciprocal flow controller of figure 8a in its first position;

[00023] Figure 9a is a perspective drawing of a third alternative embodiment of a reciprocating flow controller;

[00024] Figure 9b is an exploded view of the reciprocating flow controller of figure 9a;

[00025] Figure 9c is a top view of the reciprocating flow controller of figure 9a in its first position;

[00026] Figure 9d is a top view of the reciprocating flow controller of figure 9a in its second position;

[00027] Figure 10a is a perspective drawing of a fourth alternative embodiment of a reciprocating flow controller;

[00028] Figure 10b is a side view of the reciprocating flow controller of figure 10a;

[00029] Figure 10c is a top view of the reciprocating flow controller of figure 10a in its first position;

[00030] Figure 10d is a top view of the reciprocating flow controller of figure 10a in its second position;

[00031] Figure 11a is a perspective drawing of a fifth alternative embodiment of a reciprocating flow controller;

[00032] Figure 11b is a top view of the reciprocating flow controller of figure 11a in its first position;

[00033] Figure 11c is a top view of the reciprocating flow controller of figure 11a in its second position;

[00034] Figure 12 is an upper perspective view of a first embodiment of a device according to the present invention;

[00035] Figure 13 is a bottom rear perspective view of the embodiment of the device of Figure 12;

[00036] Figure 14 is a vertical sectional view of the device of Figure 12;

[00037] Figure 15 is a horizontal sectional view of the device of Figure 12;

[00038] Figure 16 is a top rear perspective view of a second embodiment with a device according to the present invention;

[00039] Figure 17 is a top anterior perspective view of the embodiment of the device of Figure 16;

[00040] Figure 18 is a top view of the device of figure 16;

[00041] Figure 19 is a sectional view of the device of Figure 16;

[00042] Figure 20 is a top anterior perspective view of a third embodiment of a device according to the present invention;

[00043] Figure 21 is a rear upper view of the embodiment of the device of figure 20;

[00044] Figure 22 is a rear bottom view of the embodiment of the device of figure 20;

[00045] Figure 23 is a sectional view of the device of Figure 20;

[00046] Figure 24a is an exploded view of an embodiment of a hand tool;

[00047] Figure 24b is an exploded view of the pumping section of the hand tool of figure 24a;

[00048] Figure 24c is an exploded view of the vacuum section of the hand tool of Figure 24a;

[00049] Figure 24d is a side view of the drive system of the pumping and drive sections of the hand tool of figure 24a;

[00050] Figure 24e is a sectional view of the hand tool of figure 24a;

[00051] Figure 25a is a top rear perspective view of an embodiment of a system that includes the present invention;

[00052] Figure 25b is a top frontal perspective view of the system of figure 25a;

[00053] Figure 25c is a top rear perspective view of the system in Figure 25a, with the base station liquid reservoir attached to the base station; and

[00054] Figure 25d is a top frontal perspective view of the system in Figure 25a, with the base station liquid reservoir attached to the base station.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[00055] The terms "reciprocating movement of liquid (s)" and "reciprocating liquid (s)" are used interchangeably in the present invention. For use in the present invention, both terms mean changing the flow direction of the liquid (s) back and forth over the surfaces of a mammal's oral cavity from a first flow direction to a second opposite flow direction. to the first direction of the flow.

[00056] By "effective fitting or sealing", it is understood that the level of sealing between the means to direct the liquid to and over the plurality of surfaces in the oral cavity, which is part of the device according to the invention, for example , an application tray or mouthpiece is such that the amount of liquid leaking from the device into the oral cavity during use is low enough to reduce or minimize the amount of liquid used and to maintain user comfort, for example, to avoid gagging or retching. Without limitation, retching is understood as a reflex muscle contraction (that is, it is not an intentional movement) of the posterior part of the throat caused by stimulation of the posterior part of the soft palate, the pharyngeal wall, the tonsillar area or base of the tongue , intended to be a protective movement that prevents foreign objects from entering the pharynx and airways. There is variability in the vomiting reflex between individuals, for example, which areas of the mouth stimulate it. In addition to the physical causes of retching, there may be a psychological element to this, for example, people who are afraid of choking can easily vomit when something is put in the mouth.

[00057] For use in the present invention, the term "means for transporting the liquid" includes structures through which the liquid can pass or be transported through the systems and devices described herein and includes, without limitation passages, ducts, tubes, doors, portals, channels, lumens, pipes and pipes. These means for transporting liquids can be used in devices to provide reciprocating liquids and means for directing liquids to and over surfaces of the oral cavity. These means of transport also supply liquid to the targeting means and supply liquid to the reciprocating means from a reservoir to contain the liquid, if the reservoir is contained within a handheld device containing the reciprocal means or a base unit. The transport means also supplies liquid from a base unit to a liquid reservoir contained within the handheld device. Described herein are methods, devices and systems useful for providing a beneficial effect to a buccal cavity of a mammal, for example, a human.

[00058] The methods involve bringing a plurality of surfaces of the oral cavity into contact with a liquid that is effective in providing the desired beneficial effect to the oral cavity. In these methods, the reciprocation of the liquid (s) over the plurality of surfaces of the oral cavity is provided under effective conditions to provide the desired beneficial effect to the oral cavity. The contact of the plurality of surfaces by the liquid can be conducted substantially simultaneously. By substantially simultaneous, it is understood that, although not all surfaces of the oral cavity are necessarily contacted by the fluid at the same time, most surfaces are contacted simultaneously, or within a short period of time to provide an overall effect similar to if all surfaces were contacted at the same time.

[00059] The conditions for providing the desired beneficial effect on the oral cavity may vary depending on the particular environment, the circumstances and the effect being sought. The different variables are interdependent in that they create a specific velocity of the liquid. The speed requirement may be a function of the formulation, in some modalities. For example, with the change in viscosity, in additives, for example, abrasives, agents whose viscosity decreases under shear, etc., and in the general flow properties of the formulation, the speed requirements of the jets can change to produce the same level of efficiency. Factors that can be considered to provide the right conditions to obtain the particular beneficial effect sought include, but are not limited to, the speed and / or flow and / or pressure of the liquid stream, pulsation of the liquid, the spray geometry or pattern spray rate, the temperature of the liquid and the frequency of the reciprocating cycle of the liquid.

[00060] The pressures of the liquid, that is, the pressure of the pipe just before the outlet through the jets, can be of about 3447.4 Pa (0.5 psi) to about 206.8 kPa (30 psi), or from about 20.7 to about 103.4 kPa (about 3 to about 15 psi), or about 34.5 kPa (5 psi). The flow rate of the liquid can be from about 10 ml / s to about 60 ml / s, or about 20 ml / s to about 40 ml / s. It should be noted that the larger and higher the number of jets, the greater the flow required at a given pressure / speed. The pulse frequency (linked to pulse length and application (ml / pulse) can be from about 0.5 Hz to about 50 Hz, or from about 5 Hz to about 25 Hz. The duration of the pulse application time can be from about 10% to 100%, or from about 40% to about 60%. It is observed that at 100% there is no pulse, but instead there is a continuous flow of liquid. of the application pulse (total volume in all jets / nozzles) can be from about 0.2 ml to about 120 ml, or from about 0.5 ml to about 15 ml. about 4 cm / s to about 400 cm / s, or about 20 cm / s to about 160 in / s The vacuum time can be about 10% to 100%, or about from 50% to 100% It is observed that the vacuum is always 100% The ratio between the volumetric application and the vacuum can be from about 2: 1 to about 1:20, or about 1: 1 to 1:10.

[00061] Once having the benefit of this description, the person skilled in the art will understand that the various factors can be controlled and selected depending on the particular circumstances and the desired benefit sought.

[00062] The liquid (s) will include at least one ingredient, or agent, effective to provide the sought beneficial effect, in an amount effective to provide the beneficial effect when placed in contact with the surfaces of the oral cavity . For example, the liquid may include, without limitation, an ingredient selected from the group consisting of a cleaning agent, an antimicrobial agent, a mineralizing agent, a desensitizing agent and a bleaching agent. In certain embodiments, more than one liquid can be used in a single session. For example, a cleaning solution can be applied to the oral cavity, followed by a second solution containing, for example, a bleaching agent or an antimicrobial agent. Solutions can also include a plurality of agents to realize more than one benefit with a single application. For example, the solution may include a cleaning agent and an agent to improve harmful conditioning, as further discussed below. In addition, a single solution can be effective to provide more than one beneficial effect to the oral cavity. For example, the solution may include a single agent that cleans the mouth and acts as an antimicrobial agent, or that cleans the mouth and makes teeth whiter.

[00063] Liquids useful for improving the cosmetic appearance of the oral cavity may include a bleaching agent to whiten teeth in the cavity. These bleaching agents may include, without limitation, hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide, or other agents capable of generating hydrogen peroxide when applied to teeth. These agents are well known in the art related to whitening products for oral treatment, such as rinses, toothpaste and whitening strips. Other bleaching agents may include abrasives such as silica, sodium bicarbonate, alumina, apatites and bioglass.

[00064] It is noted that, although abrasives can be used to clean and / or whiten teeth, certain abrasives can also serve to improve tooth hypersensitivity caused by loss of enamel and exposure of tubules in teeth. For example, the particle size, for example, diameter, of certain materials, for example, bioglass, can be effective in blocking the exposed tubules, thus reducing the sensitivity of the teeth.

[00065] In some embodiments, the liquid may comprise an antimicrobial composition containing an alcohol that has 3 to 6 carbon atoms. The liquid may be an antimicrobial rinse composition, particularly one that has a low ethanol content or is substantially free of ethanol, providing a high level of effectiveness in preventing plaque, gum disease and bad breath. The alcohols indicated having 3 to 6 carbon atoms are aliphatic alcohols. A particularly aliphatic alcohol that has 3 carbons is 1-propanol.

[00066] In one embodiment, the liquid may comprise an antimicrobial composition comprising (a) an effective antimicrobial amount of thymol and one or more other essential oils, (b) from about 0.01% to about 70.0% v / v, or about 0.1% to about 30% v / v, or about 0.1% to about 10% v / v, or about 0.2% to about 8% v / v, an alcohol that has 3 to 6 carbon atoms and (c) a vehicle. The alcohol can be 1-propanol. The liquid carrier can be aqueous or non-aqueous, and can include thickening agents or gelling agents to provide a particular consistency to the compositions. Water and water / ethanol mixtures are the preferred vehicle.

[00067] Another embodiment of the liquid is an antimicrobial composition comprising (a) an effective antimicrobial amount of an antimicrobial agent, (b) from about 0.01% to about 70% v / v, or about 0.1 % to about 30% v / v, or about 0.2% to about 8% v / v, of propanol and (c) a vehicle. The antimicrobial composition of this modality has unexpectedly superior release system kinetics compared to the ethanolic systems of the prior art. Exemplary antimicrobial agents that can be used include, but are not limited to, essential oils, cetyl pyridium chloride (CPC), chlorhexidine, hexetidine, chitosan, triclosan, domiphen bromide, stannous fluoride, soluble pyrophosphates, metal oxides including, but not limited to limited to zinc oxide, mint oil, sage oil, sanguine, dicalcium dihydrate, aloe vera, polyols, protease, lipase, amylases, and metal salts including, but not limited to, zinc citrate, and the like. A particularly preferred aspect of this modality is directed to an antimicrobial mouthwash, for example, a mouthwash having about 30% v / v or less, or about 10% v / v or less, or about 3% v / v or less, of 1-propanol.

[00068] Yet another embodiment of the liquid is an antimicrobial composition of reduced ethanol mouthwash, which comprises (a) an effective antimicrobial amount of thymol and one or more other essential oils; (b) about 0.01 to about 30.0% v / v, or about 0.1% to about 10% v / v, or about 0.2% to about 8% v / v v, an alcohol having 3 to 6 carbon atoms; (c) ethanol in an amount of about 25% v / v or less; (d) at least one surfactant; and (e) water. Preferably, the total concentration of ethanol and alcohol having 3 to 6 carbon atoms is not more than 30% v / v, or not more than 25% v / v, or not more than 22% v / v.

[00069] In yet another embodiment, the liquid is an ethanol-free antimicrobial mouthwash composition comprising (a) an effective antimicrobial amount of thymol and one or more other essential oils; (b) about 0.01% to about 30.0% v / v, or about 0.1% to about 10% v / v, or about 0.2% to about 8%, an alcohol that has 3 to 6 carbon atoms; (c) at least one surfactant; and (d) water.

[00070] The alcohol having 3 to 6 carbon atoms is preferably selected from the group consisting of 1-propanol, 2-propanol, 1-butanol, 2-butanol, tert-butanol and corresponding diols. 1-Propanol and 2-propanol are preferred, with 1-propanol being the most preferred.

[00071] In addition to generally improving oral hygiene of the oral cavity by cleaning, for example, removing or stopping the formation of plaque, food particles, biofilm, etc., the inventions are useful for improving harmful conditions within the cavity and improve the cosmetic appearance of the oral cavity, for example, teeth whitening. Harmful conditions can include, but are not limited to, cavities, gingivitis, inflammation, symptoms associated with periodontal disease, halitosis, tooth sensitivity and fungal infection. The liquids themselves can be in various forms, as long as they have the flow characteristics suitable for use in the devices and methods of the present invention. For example, liquids can be selected from the group consisting of solutions, emulsions and dispersions. In certain embodiments, the liquid may comprise a particulate, for example, an abrasive, dispersed in a liquid phase, for example, an aqueous phase. In these cases, the abrasive would be dispersed substantially homogeneously in the aqueous phase in order to be applied to the surfaces of the oral cavity. In other embodiments, an oil-in-water or water-in-oil emulsion can be used. In such cases, the liquid will comprise a discontinuous oily phase dispersed substantially homogeneously in a continuous aqueous phase, or a discontinuous aqueous phase dispersed substantially homogeneous in a continuous oily phase, as the case may be. In still other embodiments, the liquid can be a solution in which the agent is dissolved in a vehicle, or in which the vehicle itself can be considered as the agent to provide the desired beneficial effect, for example, an alcohol or alcohol / alcohol mixture. water, generally having other agents dissolved in it.

[00072] Here are presented devices, for example, devices for oral treatment, for example, a dental cleaning device suitable for home use and adapted to direct liquid over a plurality of surfaces of a tooth and / or gingival area, as well as methods and systems that use these devices. In certain embodiments, the surfaces of the oral cavity come into contact with the liquid substantially simultaneously. For use in the present invention, reference to the gingival area includes, without limitation, reference to the sub-gingival pocket. The suitable liquid is directed over a plurality of surfaces of the teeth and / or gingival area in a substantially simultaneous manner in a reciprocal action under conditions effective to provide cleaning, and / or general improvement of the cosmetic appearance of the oral cavity and / or improvement of a condition damaging teeth and / or gingival area, thus providing generally improved oral hygiene of the teeth and / or gingival area. For example, one of these devices cleans the teeth and / or the gingival area and removes the plaque with the use of an appropriate cleaning fluid by reciprocating the liquid back and forth over the front and rear surfaces and interproximal areas of the teeth creating, thus, a cleaning cycle and reducing the amount of cleaning liquid used.

[00073] The devices that provide reciprocation of the liquid comprise a means to control the reciprocation of the liquid. The control means includes means for transporting the liquid to and from a means for directing the liquid over the plurality of surfaces of the oral cavity. In certain embodiments, the means for providing reciprocation of the liquid comprises a plurality of portals for receiving and releasing the liquid, a plurality of passages, or conduits, through which the liquid is transported and means for changing the direction of flow of the liquid to provide reciprocation of the liquid, as described in more detail later in this document. The control means can be controlled by a logic circuit and / or a mechanically controlled circuit.

[00074] In certain embodiments, devices for providing reciprocation may include means for attaching or connecting the device to a reservoir to contain the liquid. The reservoir can be removably attached to the device. In that case, the reservoir and the device may comprise means for securing each other. After the process is finished, the reservoir can be discarded and replaced with a different one, or it can be refilled and used again. In other embodiments, the reciprocating device will include a reservoir integrated with the device. In the embodiments in which the device can be attached to a base unit, as described in the present invention, the reservoir, either integrated into the device or removably attached to the device, can be refilled from a supply reservoir that is part of the base unit. When a base unit is used, the device and the base unit will comprise means for fixing each other.

[00075] The device will comprise a power supply to boost the means for reciprocating liquids. The power supply can be contained within the device, for example, in the device cable, for example, batteries, whether they are rechargeable or disposable. When a base unit is used, the base can include means to supply power to the device. In other embodiments, the base unit may include means for recharging the rechargeable batteries contained within the device.

[00076] The devices for providing reciprocating of liquids will include means for securing the device to means for directing the liquid to the plurality of surfaces of the oral cavity, for example, an application tray or mouthpiece according to the invention. In certain embodiments, the targeting means provide substantially simultaneous contact of the plurality of surfaces of the oral cavity by the liquid. The fixing means can provide removable fixation of the tray or mouthpiece to the device. In such modalities, several users can use their own mouthpieces with the unique device comprising the reciprocating medium. In other embodiments, the attachment means may provide a non-removable attachment to the mouthpiece, so that the mouthpiece is an integral part of the device. Devices for providing reciprocation, as described above, can be contained within a compartment that also contains other components of the device in order to provide a handheld device suitable for supplying liquid to the steering means, as described in the present invention below. .

[00077] The devices of the present invention comprise a chamber to hold the liquid close to the plurality of surfaces, i.e., the liquid contact chamber (LCC). By "close", it is understood that the liquid is kept in contact with the surfaces. LCC is defined by the space bounded by the anterior inner wall and the posterior inner wall of the mouthpiece, and a wall, or membrane, that extends between and is integrated with the internal anterior and posterior walls of the mouthpiece, and in certain modalities, a membrane sealing of the posterior gingiva. Together, the internal anterior and posterior walls, the wall that extends between them and the posterior gingival membrane form the LCC membrane (LCCM). The general shape of the LCCM is that of a "U" or a "n", depending on the orientation of the mouthpiece, which follows the teeth to provide uniform contact and optimized by the liquid. The LCCM can be flexible or rigid depending on the specific targeting means. The membrane can be located as an LCCM base membrane. The LCCM's anterior and posterior internal walls each include a plurality of openings, or crevices, through which the liquid is directed to come into contact with the plurality of surfaces of the oral cavity.

[00078] The design of the LCCM can be optimized for maximum effectiveness since it relates to the size, shape, thickness, materials, volume created around the teeth / gum, design and placement of the mouthpiece as it relates to the cavity mouth and teeth in conjunction with the tubing and sealing of the gingival margin to provide comfort and reduce the user's vomit reflex. The combination of the above properties provides effective contact of the teeth and the gingival area by the liquid.

[00079] The LCCM provides a controlled and isolated environment with a known volume, that is, the LCC, to place the teeth and / or gingival area in contact with liquids and then remove used liquids, as well as debris, plaque, etc. ., of the LCC without exposing the entire oral cavity to liquid, debris, etc. This reduces the potential for fluid intake. The LCCM also allows for increases in flow rates and pressure of liquids without obstructing individual nozzles when significant flow rates are required to provide adequate cleaning, for example. The LCCM also allows for reduced amounts of fluid and flow rates when necessary, since only the area within the LCC is being brought into contact with the liquid, and not the entire oral cavity. LCCM also allows application and controlled duration of liquid contact over, through and around teeth and the gingival area, allowing increased concentrations of fluids in the area being brought into contact with the liquid, thus providing more effective control and application of the liquid.

[00080] The thickness of the LCCM's walls can be within a range of 0.2 mm to 1.5 mm, to provide the necessary physical performance properties, while reducing material content and optimizing performance. The distance between the inner walls of the LCCM and the teeth can be from about 0.1 mm to about 5 mm, and more typically an average distance of about 2.5 mm to provide maximum comfort, while reducing the need for adaptation and LCC volume.

[00081] The mouthpiece size and shape preferably uses three basic universal sizes (small, medium and large) for the upper and lower teeth, but the design provides mechanisms to allow different levels of adaptation as needed to ensure comfort and functionality to the individual user. The device can incorporate a connection mechanism, which would only allow it to function when it was in the correct position in the mouth. The mouthpiece may include an upper section and a lower section to provide substantially simultaneous contact of the plurality of surfaces of the oral cavity by the liquid. In an alternative embodiment, the upper and lower sections can be cleaned using a single bridge that could be used on the upper or lower teeth and on the user's gums (first placed in one portion for cleaning and then subsequently placed over the other portion for cleaning). cleaning).

[00082] The number and location of the openings, also called in the present invention, slits, jets or nozzles contained within the inner walls of the mouthpiece through which the liquid is directed will vary and can be determined based on the circumstances and the use, the particular user and the beneficial effect being sought. The cross-sectional geometry of the openings can be circular, elliptical, trapezoidal, or any other geometry that provides effective contact of the surfaces of the oral cavity by the liquid. The location and number of openings can be designed to target jets of liquid in a variety of effective spray patterns to provide the desired beneficial effect. The opening diameters can be from about 0.1 to about 3 mm, or from about 0.2 mm to about 0.8 mm, or about 0.5 mm, to provide average cleaning and jet speed effective coverage and coverage.

[00083] The optimal placement and direction / angles of the opening allows coverage of substantially the entire surface of the teeth in the area of the oral cavity to be contacted by the liquid, including, but not limited to, interdental, upper, lateral, posterior surfaces, and the gingival pouch. In alternative embodiments, the openings could have different sizes and different shapes to provide different cleaning, coverage and spray patterns, to adjust speeds, density and fan patterns (full cone, fan, partial, cone, jet), or due to formulation considerations. The nozzles could also be designed to be tubular and / or extend from the LCC membrane to provide a directed spray or act as a sprayer-like mechanism to provide extended tooth coverage, similar to a hose spray system. The nozzles are preferably integral with the inner walls of the LCC membrane and can be incorporated into the inner walls using any number of assembly or forming techniques known in the art (molded by insertion, formed on the membrane through machining, injection molding, etc.).

[00084] LCCM can be an elastomeric material such as ethylene - vinyl acetate (EVA), thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), or silicone, to allow the movement of the inner walls and provide a larger area of coverage of the jet with minimal mechanics, reducing the volumetric flow needs to achieve optimum performance, while providing a softer and more flexible material to protect the teeth in case of direct contact with the teeth. A flexible membrane can also provide an acceptable fit for a wide range of users, due to its ability to adapt to teeth. Alternatively, the LCCM could be made of a rigid or semi-rigid material, for example, but not limited to a thermoplastic.

[00085] In an alternative modality, LCCM could also include abrasive elements such as filaments, textures, polishing elements, additives (silica, etc.), and other geometric elements that could be used for other cleaning and / or treatment needs and to ensure a minimum distance between the teeth and the LCCM for, but not limited to, treatment, cleaning, and positioning.

[00086] LCCM could be created by a variety of methods, for example, but not limited to, machining, injection molding, blow molding, extrusion, compacting modeling, and / or vacuum forming. It can also be created in conjunction with the piping, but incorporating the piping circuit within the LCC, and / or over-molded on the piping to provide a unitary construction with minimal assembly.

[00087] In one embodiment, the LCCM can be manufactured separately and then installed in the pipelines, using any number of assembly and sealing techniques, including adhesives, epoxies, silicones, thermosetting, ultrasonic welding, and hot glue. . The LCCM is designed so that, when assembled with the piping, it effectively and efficiently creates the preferred double piping design without any additional components.

[00088] In certain modalities, the LCCM can also be designed or used to create the gingival sealing area. In certain embodiments, a vacuum is applied within the LCC, which improves the engagement of the mouthpiece to form a positive seal with the gum in the oral cavity. In other modalities, pressure is applied outside the LCCM, inside the oral cavity, which improves the engagement of the mouthpiece to form a positive seal with the gingiva in the oral cavity. In yet other embodiments, a denture-like adhesive can be applied around the mouthpiece during initial use to provide a personalized, reusable resilient seal when inserted into a specific user's oral cavity. It would then become resiliently rigid to adapt and to provide a positive seal with the gums and in subsequent applications. In another embodiment, the seal could be applied and / or replaced or discarded after each use.

[00089] The devices of the invention also comprise a first pipe to contain the liquid and to supply the liquid to the LCC through the openings of the front inner wall, and a second pipe to contain the liquid and supply the liquid to the chamber through the openings of the posterior inner wall. This design provides numerous different options depending on what operation is being conducted. For example, in a cleaning operation, it may be preferable to spray the LCC with liquid directly on the teeth on one side of the LCC from the first pipe and then empty / pull the liquid around the teeth on the other side of the LCC into the second tubing to provide controlled interdental cleaning, the gum line and the tooth surface. This flow from one side of the LCC could be repeated several times in a pulsating action before reversing the flow to apply jets of liquid from the second pipe and empty / pull the liquid from the back side of the teeth into the first pipe over a period time and / or number of cycles. This action of the liquid creates a turbulent, repeatable and reversible flow, thus providing reciprocation of the liquid over the surfaces of the oral cavity.

[00090] In alternative modalities, the piping can have a single piping design providing both liquid thrust and attraction through the same sets of jets simultaneously, or it can have any number of piping divisions to provide even greater control of the liquid application. and removing the liquid cleaning treatment. Multitubulation can also be designed to have dedicated application and removal pipes. The pipes can also be designed to be integral to the LCCM and / or to be inside it.

[00091] The pipe material would be a semi-rigid thermoplastic, which would provide the necessary rigidity to not flatten or burst during the controlled flow of liquids, but providing some flexibility when fitting in the user's mouth for insertion, sealing / positioning and removal of the mouthpiece. To minimize the complexity of manufacturing, the number of components and the cost of tools, double piping is created when assembled with LCCM. The tubing could also be multicomponent to provide a softer external "tactile sensation" to the teeth / gums using a smaller durometer elastomeric material, for example, but not limited to, a compatible thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). Piping could be created by a variety of methods, such as, but not limited to, machining, injection molding, blow molding, compacting modeling, or vacuum forming.

[00092] The devices of the invention also comprise a first port for transporting the liquid to and from the first pipe and a second port for transporting the liquid to and from the second pipe, and means for providing an effective seal of the targeting means within the oral cavity, that is, a gingival seal. In certain embodiments, the first and second ports can serve to transport liquid to and from the first and second pipes and to attach the mouthpiece to the means for supplying liquid to the mouthpiece. In other embodiments, the targeting means may also include means for attaching the targeting means to the means for supplying liquid to the targeting means.

[00093] Figure 1 is a schematic drawing of an embodiment of a system using the devices according to the present invention. The figure shows the system 200 with components that include: means for providing reciprocating of the liquid in the oral cavity 202, means for directing the liquid over the plurality of surfaces of the oral cavity, in this case shown as the application tray 100 and the supply reservoir of liquid 290. Means for providing reciprocating of liquids may, in this embodiment, include the application / collection device 210, the reciprocating flow controller 230, tubes 212, 216, and 292 for transporting liquid throughout the system, and the unidirectional liquid flow valves 214, 218 and 294. Tubes 232 and 234 provide transport of liquid from the reciprocating flow controller 230 to application tray 100.

[00094] In some embodiments, the application / collection device 210 may be a piston pump. The liquid supply reservoir 290 can be made of glass, plastic or metal. The liquid supply reservoir 290 can be an integral part of system 200 and can be refilled. In some embodiments, the liquid supply reservoir 290 may be a replaceable liquid supply, such as a single or multiple use cartridge, separably connected to system 200.

[00095] In some embodiments, the liquid supply reservoir 290 and / or tubes 212, 292 may include a heat source to preheat the liquid before it is directed to the application tray 100 to be applied to surfaces of the oral cavity. The temperature must be kept within an effective range to provide efficiency and comfort to the user during use.

[00096] Application tray 100, discussed in detail later in this document, could be integrated or separably connected to the reciprocating medium 202 through tubes 232, 234 and additional fixing means (not shown). It could have one or two sides with easily cleaned internal filters to capture food particles. When positioned within the oral cavity, for example, on the teeth and gums, tray 100 makes an effective fit or seal against the gums, and includes means for directing the liquid against the surfaces of the oral cavity, for example, the surfaces of the teeth .

[00097] The liquid in the liquid supply reservoir 290 flows through the tube 292 to the application / collection device 210. The flow of liquids through the tube 292 is controlled by a unidirectional flow valve 294. From the application / collection device 210, the liquid flows through the tube 212 to the reciprocating flow controller 230. The one-way flow valve 214 controls the flow of liquids through the tube 212. The liquid flows from the reciprocating flow controller 230 to the application tray 100 through the tube 232 or tube 234, depending on the flow direction setting of flow controller 230. Liquid flows from application tray 100 through tube 234 or tube 232 back to the reciprocating flow controller 230, and the flow controller reciprocating flow 230 to the application / collection device 210 through the tube 216. The unidirectional flow valve 218 controls the flow of liquids through the tube 216.

[00098] The actions of the application / collection device 210 can be controlled by a logic circuit, which can include a program to start the reciprocation cycle, a program to execute the reciprocation cycle, that is, to make the liquid be reciprocated on the teeth, thus providing the beneficial effect to the oral cavity, for example, cleaning the teeth, a program to empty the application tray 100 at the end of the reciprocating cycle, and a self-cleaning cycle to clean the system between uses or pre-established or automatic cleaning times.

[00099] Although not shown, a front panel with a series of switches and indicator lights can also be incorporated into the 200 system. The switches can include, but are not limited to, on / off, filling the application tray 100, run the reciprocation program, empty the system 200, and clean the system 200. Indicator or display lights include, but are not limited to, running, loading, running reciprocation program, system emptying, cleaning results or feedback, and self-cleaning cycle in operation. In the modalities in which the liquid is preheated before being directed to the application tray 100, a display light could be used to indicate that the liquid is at the temperature suitable for use.

[000100] One method of using the 200 system to clean teeth is as follows. In the first step, the user places the application tray 100 in the oral cavity over the teeth and gingival area. The user closes tray 100 thus obtaining an effective fit or seal between the gums, teeth and tray 100. When using the system according to the invention, the user presses a start button that initiates the cleaning process. The cleaning process is as follows: 1. The application / collection device 210 is activated to start removing cleaning liquid from the liquid supply reservoir 290 through the tube 292 and the one-way valve 294. 2. When the application device / collection 210 is sufficiently full, the application / collection device 210 is activated to start dispensing cleaning liquid to the application tray 100 through tube 212, one-way valve 214, reciprocating flow controller 230, and tube 232 The cleaning liquid will be prevented from flowing through tubes 216 and 292 through the unidirectional flow valves 218 and 294, respectively. 3. The application / collection device 210 is activated to start removing cleaning liquid from the application tray 100 through tube 234 and then through the reciprocating flow controller 230 and then through tube 216 and the valve unidirectional 218. The cleaning liquid will be prevented from flowing through the pipe 212 through the unidirectional flow valve 214. If there is insufficient cleaning liquid to properly fill the application / collection device 210, additional cleaning liquid can be extracted from the reservoir for supply of liquid 290 through tube 292 and one-way valve 294. 4. The direction of liquid flow is then reversed. 5. To reciprocate the cleaning liquid, steps 2 and 3 are repeated after the flow direction is reversed, generating a cleaning liquid cycle between the application / collection device 210 and the application tray 100, using the tubes 234 and 232, respectively. 6. The reciprocating cycle described continues until the time required for cleaning is complete, or until the desired number of cycles is completed.

[000101] It is observed that there may be a delay between steps 2 and 3 (in one or both directions), allowing a dwell time in which the liquid is left in contact with the teeth without flow.

[000102] Figure 2 is a schematic drawing of a first alternative embodiment of a system using the devices according to the present invention. The figure shows the system 300, with components that include: means for providing reciprocating of the liquid in the oral cavity 302, reservoir for liquids 370, reservoir for supplying liquid 390 and means for directing the liquid towards and over the plurality of surfaces of the cavity mouthpiece, in this case shown as application tray 100. Means for providing fluid reciprocation may include application device 310, collection device 320, reciprocating flow controller 330, tubes 312, 322, 372, 376, and 392, the solution one-way flow valves 314, 324, 374, 378, and 394. Tubes 332 and 334 provide transport of the liquid from the reciprocating flow controller 330 to the application tray 100.

[000103] In some embodiments, the application device 310 and the collection device 320 can be individual single-acting piston pumps. In other embodiments, the delivery device 310 and the collection device 320 can be housed together as a double-acting piston pump. The liquid supply reservoir 390 and the liquid reservoir 370 can be made of glass, plastic or metal. The liquid supply reservoir 390 can be an integral part of system 300 and can be refilled. In some embodiments, the liquid supply reservoir 390 may be a replaceable liquid supply separably connected to the system 300.

[000104] In some embodiments, any of the liquid supply reservoir 390, the liquid reservoir 370, or tubes 312, 372, 392 can include a heat source to preheat the liquid before it is directed to the application tray 100 to be applied to surfaces in the oral cavity. The temperature must be kept within an effective range to provide comfort to the user during use.

[000105] Application tray 100 could be integrated or separably connected to reciprocating cleaning medium 302 through tubes 332, 334 and additional fixing means (not shown).

[000106] The liquid in the liquid supply reservoir 390 flows through the tube 392 to the liquid reservoir 370. The liquid in the reservoir 370 flows through the tube 372 to the application device 310. The flow of liquids through the tube 372 can be controlled by a one-way flow valve 374. From application device 310, liquid flows through tube 312 to reciprocating flow controller 330. One-way flow valve 314 controls the flow of liquids through tube 312. Liquid flows from the reciprocating flow controller 330 to the application tray 100 via tube 332 or 334, depending on the flow direction setting of the flow controller 330. Liquid flows from the application tray 100 through tube 334 or 332 back to the reciprocating flow controller 330, and from reciprocating flow controller 330 to collection device 320 through tube 322. One-way flow valve 324 controls the flow of liquid through the tube 322. Finally, the cleaning liquid flows from the collecting device 320 to the liquid reservoir 370 through the tube 376. The one-way flow valve 378 controls the flow of liquids through the tube 376.

[000107] The actions of the application device 310 and the collection device 320 can be controlled by a logic circuit, which can include a program to start the reciprocation cycle, a program to execute the reciprocation cycle, that is, to do with the liquid to be reciprocated over the plurality of surfaces of the oral cavity, thus providing the beneficial effect, a program to empty the application tray 100 at the end of the reciprocating cycle and a self-cleaning cycle to clean the system between uses or pre-established or automatic cleaning times.

[000108] System 300 may also include switches, such as, for example, on / off, filling application tray 100, running the cleaning program, emptying system 300, and cleaning system 300, and indicator lights or display options that include, but are not limited to, on, loading, running reciprocating program, system emptying, cleaning results or feedback, and running self-cleaning cycle. In the modalities in which the liquid is preheated before being directed to the application tray 100, a display light could be used to indicate that the liquid is at the temperature suitable for use.

[000109] One method of using the 300 system to clean teeth is as follows. Before use, the cleaning liquid in the liquid supply chamber 390 flows through the tube 392 and the one-way valve 394 to the liquid reservoir 370. In some embodiments, the liquid supply reservoir 390 is now disconnected from the system 300.

[000110] In the first step, the user positions the application tray 100 in the oral cavity over the teeth and gingival area. The user closes tray 100 thus obtaining an effective fit or seal between the gums, teeth and tray 100. The user presses a start button that starts the cleaning process. The cleaning process is as follows: 1. The application device 310 is activated to start removing the cleaning liquid from the cleaning liquid reservoir 370 through the tube 372 and the one-way valve 374. 2. When the application device 310 is sufficiently full, application device 310 is activated to start dispensing cleaning liquid to application tray 100 through tube 312, one-way valve 314, reciprocating flow controller 330, and tube 332. 3. The device collection valve 320 is activated sequentially or simultaneously with activation of the application device 310 to start extracting the cleaning liquid from the application tray 100 through the tube 334, the reciprocating flow controller 330, the tube 322, and the one-way valve 324 The cleaning solution will be prevented from flowing through the tube 372 through the one-way flow valve 374. In some embodiments, the application device 310 and the collection device 320 are controlled by a logic circuit to work together so that an equal volumetric flow of cleaning liquid is dispensed from the application device 310 and extracted to the collection device 320. 4. The collection device 320 is activated to start to dispense the cleaning solution to the cleaning liquid reservoir 370 through the pipe 376 and the one-way valve 378. The cleaning liquid will be prevented from flowing through the pipe 322 through the one-way flow valve 324. The application device 310 is also activated to start extracting cleaning liquid from the cleaning liquid reservoir 370 through the pipe 372 and the one-way valve 374. 5. To reciprocate the cleaning liquid, steps 2 and 3 are repeated after the flow direction is reversed, generating a cycle of cleaning liquid between the application / collection device 320 and the application tray 100, using tubes 334 and 332, respectively. 6. To generate a cleaning liquid cycle, steps 2 to 4 are repeated, generating a cleaning liquid cycle between the cleaning liquid reservoir 370 and the application tray 100. 7. The process continues until the necessary time for cleaning to finish, or until the desired number of cycles is completed.

[000111] Figure 3 is a schematic drawing of a second alternative embodiment of a system using the devices according to the present invention. The figure shows the system 400, with components that include: means for providing reciprocating of liquids in the oral cavity 402, reservoir for liquids 470, reservoir for supplying liquid 490 and means for directing the liquid to the plurality of surfaces of the oral cavity, in this if shown as application tray 100. Means for providing reciprocation 402 may include application device 410, collection device 420, reciprocating flow controller 430, tubes 412, 422a, 422b, 472, 476, and 492 and one-way solution flow valves 414, 424a, 424b, 474, 478 and 494. Tubes 432 and 434 provide transport of liquid from the reciprocating flow controller 430 to application tray 100.

[000112] In the present embodiment, the application device 410 and the collection device 420 are housed together as a double-acting piston pump, with a common piston 415. The liquid supply reservoir 490 and the liquid reservoir 470 can be made of glass, plastic, or metal. The 490 liquid supply reservoir can be an integral part of the 400 system and can be refilled. In some embodiments, the liquid supply chamber 490 may be a replaceable liquid supply separately separable from the 400 system.

[000113] In some embodiments, any of the liquid supply chambers 490, the liquid reservoir 470, or tubes 412, 472, 492 can include a heat source to preheat the cleaning solution before it is directed for the application tray 100 to be applied to the teeth. The temperature must be kept within an effective range to provide comfort to the user during use.

[000114] Application tray 100 could be integrated or separably connected to the reciprocating medium 402 through tubes 432, 434 and other fastening means (not shown).

[000115] The liquid in the liquid supply chamber 490 flows through the tube 492 to the liquid reservoir 470. The liquid in the reservoir 470 flows through the tube 472 to the application device 410. The flow of liquids through the tube 472 is controlled by a unidirectional flow valve 474. From application device 410, liquid flows through tube 412 to reciprocating flow controller 430. Unidirectional flow valve 414 controls the flow of liquids through tube 412. Liquid flows from the reciprocating flow controller 430 for application tray 100 through tube 432 or tube 434, depending on the direction of flow. Liquid flows from application tray 100 through tube 434 or tube 432, again depending on the flow direction, back to the reciprocating flow controller 430, and from the reciprocating flow controller 430 to the collection device 420 through the tubes 422a and 422b. The one-way flow valves 424a and 424b control the flow of liquids through the tubes. Finally, liquid flows from the collecting device 420 to the liquid reservoir 470 through tubes 476a and 476b. The unidirectional flow valves 478a and 478b control the flow of liquids through the tubes.

[000116] The actions of the application device 410 and the collection device 420 are controlled by a logic circuit, which can include a program to start the reciprocation cycle, a program to execute the reciprocation cycle, that is, to make that the solution be reciprocated over the plurality of surfaces of the oral cavity, thus providing the beneficial effect, a program to empty the application tray 100 at the end of the cycle and a self-cleaning cycle to clean the system between uses or pre-set or automatic cleaning times.

[000117] System 400 may also include switches, such as on / off, filling application tray 100, performing the cleaning process, emptying system 400, and cleaning system 400, and indicator or display lights which include, but are not limited to, connected, loading, running reciprocation program, system emptying and self-cleaning cycle in operation. In embodiments in which the liquid is preheated before being directed to the application tray 100, a display light could be used to indicate that the liquid is at the temperature suitable for use.

[000118] One method of using the 400 system to clean teeth is as follows. Before use, the cleaning liquid in the liquid supply reservoir 490 flows through the tube 492 and the one-way valve 494 to the cleaning liquid reservoir 470. In some embodiments, the liquid supply reservoir 490 is now disconnected from the system 400.

[000119] In the first stage, the user positions the application tray 100 in the oral cavity over the teeth and gingival area. The user closes tray 100 thus obtaining an effective fit or seal between the gums, teeth and tray 100. The user presses a start button that starts the cleaning process. The cleaning process is as follows: 1. Piston 415 is activated to start extracting cleaning liquid to the application device 410 from the cleaning liquid reservoir 470 through the tube 472 and the one-way valve 474. For this, the piston 415 rotates from right to left ("R" to "L" in figure 3). 2. When application device 410 is sufficiently full, application device 410 is activated to begin dispensing cleaning liquid to application tray 100 through tube 412, one-way valve 414, reciprocating flow controller 430, and of tube 432. For this, piston 415 rotates from left to right ("L" to "R" in figure 3). The "L" to "R" movement of piston 415 causes the collection device 420 to start extracting cleaning liquid from the application tray 100 through the tube 434, the reciprocating flow controller 430, the tube 422a, and the valve unidirectional 424a. The cleaning liquid will be prevented from flowing through tubes 472 and 422a, through the unidirectional flow valves 474 and 424b. Any excess cleaning liquid in the collection device 420 will begin dispensing to the cleaning liquid reservoir 470 through the tube 476b and the one-way valve 478b. The cleaning liquid will be prevented from flowing through the pipe 422b through the unidirectional flow valve 424b. 3. To generate a cleaning solution cycle, steps 1 to 2 are repeated, generating a cleaning liquid cycle between cleaning solution reservoir 470 and application tray 100. 4. The process continues until the necessary time for cleaning to finish, or until the desired number of cycles is completed.

[000120] Each modality described in figure 1, figure 2, and figure 3 includes a reciprocating flow controller (230, 330, 430 in figure 1, figure 2, figure 3, respectively). A perspective view and an exploded view of an embodiment of a reciprocating flow controller according to the present invention are shown in figure 6a and figure 6b, respectively. The figures show the reciprocating flow controller 500 with compartment 510 and flow diverter 520. Compartment 510 has ports 514, 515, 516, and 517. Flow diverter 520 occupies the space defined by the internal walls of compartment 510 , and has the panel 522 to divert the flow of liquids, and the position adjuster 524.

[000121] Figure 6c is a cross-sectional view of the reciprocating flow controller 500 in its first position. In this position, the flow of incoming liquids 532, like the liquid in tube 212 of figure 1, enters reciprocating flow controller 500 through port 515. Liquid exits reciprocating flow controller 500 through port 514 as flow outlet liquid 534, or like the liquid in tube 232 of figure 1. The flow of return liquids 536, like the liquid in tube 234 of figure 1, enters the reciprocating flow controller 500 through port 517 again. liquid exits the reciprocating flow controller 500 through port 516 as the outgoing liquid flow 538, or as the liquid in the tube 216 of figure 1.

[000122] Figure 6d is a cross-sectional view of the reciprocating flow controller 500 in its second position. In this position, the flow of incoming liquids 532, like the liquid in tube 212 of figure 1, enters the reciprocating flow controller 500 through port 515. The liquid exits reciprocating flow controller 500 through port 516 as the flow outlet liquid 534, or as the liquid in tube 234 of figure 1. The flow of return liquids 536, like the liquid in tube 232 of figure 1, enters the reciprocating flow controller 500 through port 517 again. liquid again exits the reciprocating flow controller 500 through port 514 as the outgoing liquid flow 538, or as the liquid in the tube 216 of figure 1.

[000123] The liquid reciprocation in the application tray 100 of figure 1 is obtained by alternating the reciprocating flow controller 500 between its first and second position.

[000124] A perspective drawing of a first alternative embodiment of a reciprocating flow controller is shown in figure 7a. The figure shows the reciprocating flow controller 550 with housing 560, flow control block 570, and fixing pin 580. Housing 560 has ports 564, 565, 566, and 567. Flow control block 570 it occupies the space defined by the internal walls of compartment 560, and has passages, or conduits, 571, 572, 573, and 574 to divert the flow of liquids.

[000125] Figure 7b is a top view of the reciprocating flow controller 550 in its first position (fixing pin 580 in the "out" position). In the first position, the flow of incoming liquids 592, like the liquid in tube 212 of figure 1, enters reciprocating flow controller 550 through port 564. Liquid flows through passage 573 of control block 570, and exits the reciprocating flow controller 550 through port 566 as the outflow of liquids 594, or as the liquid in the tube 232 of figure 1. The flow of return liquids 596, such as the cleaning liquid in the tube 234 of figure 1, re-enters the reciprocating flow controller 550 through port 567. Liquid flows through passage 571 of control block 570, and exits reciprocating flow controller 550 through port 565 as the outflow of liquids 598, or as the liquid in tube 216 of figure 1.

[000126] Figure 7c is a top view of the reciprocating flow controller 550 in its second position (fixing pin 580 in the "in" position). In the second position, the flow of incoming liquids 592, like the liquid in tube 212 of figure 1, enters reciprocating flow controller 550 through port 564. Liquid flows through passage 574 of control block 570, and exits of the reciprocating flow controller 550 through port 567 as the outflow of liquids 594, or as the liquid in tube 234 of figure 1. The flow of return liquids 596, like the liquid in tube 232 of figure 1, enters again on the reciprocating flow controller 550 through port 566. Liquid flows through passage 572 of control block 570, and exits reciprocating flow controller 550 through port 565 as the outflow of liquids 598, or as the liquid in tube 212 of figure 1.

[000127] The liquid reciprocation in the application tray 100 of figure 1 is obtained by changing the reciprocating flow controller 550 from its first position to its second position.

[000128] An exploded view and a perspective view of a second alternative embodiment of a reciprocating flow controller are shown in figure 8a and figure 8b, respectively. The figures show the reciprocating flow controller 610 with housing 620 and flow control cylinder 630. Housing 620 has ports 621, 622, 623, and 624. Flow control cylinder 630 occupies the space defined by the walls internal to compartment 620, has passages 633, 634, 635, and 636 to divert liquid flow, and position adjuster 632.

[000129] Figure 8c is a side view of the reciprocal flow controller 610 in its first position. In the first position, the inlet liquid enters the reciprocating flow controller 610 through port 621. The liquid flows through passage 634 of control cylinder 630, and exits reciprocating flow controller 610 through port 623. The return liquid re-enters reciprocating flow controller 610 through port 624. Liquid flows through passage 633 of control cylinder 630, and exits reciprocating flow controller 610 through port 622.

[000130] Although not shown, the reciprocating flow controller 610 can be placed in its second position by rotating the position adjuster 632 by 90 °. In the second position, the inlet liquid enters the reciprocating flow controller 610 through port 621. The liquid flows through passage 636 of control cylinder 630, and exits reciprocating flow controller 610 through port 624. The return liquid re-enters reciprocating flow controller 610 through port 623. Liquid flows through passage 636 of control cylinder 630, and exits reciprocating flow controller 610 through port 622.

[000131] The reciprocation of liquid in the application tray 100 of figures 1, 2 or 3 is obtained by switching the reciprocating flow controller 610 between its first and second position.

[000132] A perspective drawing and an exploded view of a third alternative embodiment of a reciprocating flow controller are shown in figure 9a and figure 9b, respectively. The figures show the reciprocating flow controller 710 with cover 720, flow diverter disk 730 and base 740. Cover 720 has cover ports 722 and 724. Base 740 has base ports 742 and 744. The flow diverter disc 730 is disposed between the cap 720 and the base 740, and has the panel 735 for diverting the flow of liquids, and the position adjuster 732 in the form of a gear.

[000133] Figure 9c is a top view of a reciprocating flow controller 710 in its first position. In this position, the inlet liquid, like the liquid in tube 212 of figure 1, enters the reciprocating flow controller 710 through the base port 742. The liquid exits the reciprocating flow controller 710 through the cover door 722, as the liquid in the tube 232 of figure 1. The return liquid, like the liquid in the tube 234 of figure 1, re-enters the reciprocating flow controller 710 through the cover door 724. The liquid exits again from the reciprocating flow controller 710 through the base port 744, as the liquid in the tube 216 of figure 1.

[000134] Figure 9d is a top view of the reciprocating flow controller 710 in its second position. In this position, the inlet liquid, like the liquid in tube 212 of figure 1, enters the reciprocating flow controller 710 through the base port 742. The liquid exits the reciprocating flow controller 710 through the cover door 724 as the liquid in tube 234 of figure 1. The return liquid, like the liquid in tube 232 of figure 1, re-enters the reciprocating flow controller 710 through the cover door 722. The liquid exits the reciprocating flow controller 710 through the port base 744, like the liquid in the tube 216 of figure 1.

[000135] The reciprocating of liquid in the application tray 100 of figure 1 is obtained by switching the reciprocating flow controller 710 between its first and its second position. It has been found that the width of panel 735 in relation to the diameters of cover doors 722 and 724 and base doors 742 and 744 is of critical importance for the performance of the reciprocating flow controller 710. If the width of panel 735 is equal a or greater than any of the diameters, then one or more of the cover doors 722 and 724 or the base doors 742 and 744 can be blocked, or isolated, during part of the reciprocation, resulting in sub-optimal performance of or failure the device. A channel can be located on panel 735 to avoid this condition.

[000136] A perspective view and a side view of a fourth alternative embodiment of a reciprocating flow controller are shown in figure 10a and figure 10b, respectively. The figures show the reciprocating flow controller 750 with cover 760, diverter disk 770 and base 780. Cover 760 has cover doors 762 and 764. Base 780 has the upper doors of base 781, 782, 784, and 785, as well as the lower doors of the base 783 and 786. The upper doors of the base 781 and 782 join to form the lower door of the base 783, while the upper doors of the base 784 and 785 join to form the lower door of the base. base 786. Flow diverter 770 is arranged between cover 760 and base 780, and has double gears 770a and 770b to divert the flow of liquids.

[000137] Figure 10c is a top view of the reciprocating flow controller 750 in its first position. In this position, the inlet liquid, like the liquid in the pipe 212 of figure 1, enters the reciprocating flow controller 750 through the bottom port of the base 783, while the top port of the base 784 is blocked. The gear 770a is adjusted so that the liquid exits the base 780 through the upper port of the base 781. The liquid exits the reciprocating flow controller 750 through the cover port 762, like the liquid in the tube 232 of figure 1. The liquid of return, like the liquid in the tube 234 of figure 1, re-enters the reciprocating flow controller 750 through the cover port 764. Gear 770b is adjusted so that the liquid enters the base 780 through the upper port of the base 785. The liquid exits the reciprocating flow controller 750 through the base port 786, like the liquid in tube 216 of figure 1.

[000138] Figure 10d is a top view of the reciprocating flow controller 750 in its second position. In this position, the inlet liquid, like the liquid in tube 212 of figure 1, enters the reciprocating flow controller 750 through the base port 783. Gear 770b is adjusted so that the liquid leaves base 780 through the upper port base 782, while the upper door of base 785 is locked. The liquid leaves the reciprocating flow controller 710 through the lid port 764 as the liquid in the tube 234 of figure 1. The return liquid, like the liquid in the tube 232 of figure 1, re-enters the reciprocating flow controller 750 through cover door 762. Gear 770a is adjusted so that liquid enters base 780 through the upper door of base 784, while the upper door of base 781 is locked. The liquid exits the reciprocating flow controller 750 through the base port 786, like the liquid in the tube 216 of figure 1.

[000139] The liquid reciprocation in the application tray 100 of figure 1 is obtained by switching the reciprocating flow controller 750 between its first and second position. When between the first and second positions, the crossing of the flow is allowed to eliminate the blocked flow, which could result in sub-optimal operation or device failure.

[000140] A perspective drawing of a fifth alternative embodiment of a reciprocating flow controller is shown in figure 11a. The figure shows the reciprocating flow controller 810 with flow channels 831, 832, 833, 834, 835, 836, 837, and 838, and flow diverter 820. Flow channel 831 splits to form the flow channels. flow 832 and 833. Flow channel 834 splits to form flow channels 835 and 836. Flow channels 833 and 836 join to form flow channel 837, flow channels 832 and 835 join to form flow channel 838. Flow diverter 820 is arranged next to flow channels 831, 832, 833, 834, 835, 836, 837, and 838, and has stem 822, driver 824, and control elements flow control 825, 826, 827, and 828 to divert the flow of liquids.

[000141] Figure 11b is a top view of a reciprocating flow controller 810 in its first position. Actuator 824 is adjusted so that flow control elements 825 and 828 prevent the flow of liquids through channels 833 and 835, respectively, while flow control elements 826 and 827 allow flow through channels 836 and 832 , respectively. In this position, the inlet liquid, like the liquid in tube 212 of figure 1, enters the reciprocating flow controller 810 through flow channel 831. Liquid flows through flow channel 832, into flow channel 838 The liquid exits the reciprocating flow controller 810 through flow channel 838, like the liquid in tube 232 in figure 1. The return liquid, like the liquid in tube 234 in figure 1, re-enters the reciprocating flow controller 810 through the liquid channel 837. The liquid flows through the flow channel 836 into the flow channel 834, leaving the reciprocating flow controller 810 through the flow channel 834, like the liquid in the tube 216 of figure 1.

[000142] Figure 11c is a top view of the reciprocating flow controller 810 in its second position. Actuator 824 is adjusted so that flow control elements 826 and 827 prevent the flow of liquids through channels 836 and 832, respectively, while flow control elements 828 and 825 allow flow through channels 833 and 835 , respectively. In this position, the inlet liquid, like the liquid in tube 212 of figure 1, enters the reciprocating flow controller 810 through flow channel 831. Liquid flows through flow channel 833, into flow channel 837 The liquid exits the reciprocating flow controller 810 through flow channel 837, just like the liquid in tube 234 of figure 1. The return liquid, like the liquid in tube 232 of figure 1, re-enters the flow controller reciprocating 810 through the liquid channel 838. The liquid flows through the flow channel 835 into the flow channel 834, leaving the reciprocating flow controller 810 through the flow channel 834, like the liquid in the tube 216 of figure 1.

[000143] The reciprocating of cleaning liquid in the application tray 100 of figure 1 is obtained by switching the reciprocating flow controller 810 between its first and second position.

[000144] Figure 4 is a schematic drawing of another alternative modality of a system using the devices according to the present invention. As shown, system 10 includes means for directing fluid to a plurality of surfaces of the oral cavity, in this case shown as application tray 100, and contained in compartment 12, a piston pump 20 with piston 22 engaged with the sensor location 24, logic circuit 30, power supply 32, liquid supply reservoir 40, liquid holding reservoir 42, tubes 52, 54, 56, 58, liquid flow valves 62, 64, 66, 68, and pressure transducers 72, 74.

[000145] The compartment 12 is capable of holding the necessary components and is a means to retain the necessary connectors. In modalities in which the system 10 is designed to be portable, compartment 12 pairs with an electric charging base station, both mechanically and electrically.

[000146] In the mode shown, pump 20 is shown in the form of a double-acting piston pump, although it is understood that a pair of single-acting pumps, or other equivalent pumps, can be used. When the pump is a double-acting piston pump, the pump includes piston 22, first chamber 26, and second chamber 28. Piston 22 is engaged with a location sensor 24. Pressure transducers 72, 74 measure the pressure in the first chamber 26 and the second chamber 28, respectively.

[000147] The liquid supply reservoir 40 and the liquid retention reservoir 42 can be produced from glass, plastic, or metal. The supply reservoir 40 can be an integral part of compartment 12 and can be refillable. In some embodiments, the supply chamber 40 may be a supply of replaceable solution connected separably to compartment 12. Retention reservoir 42 is used to store solution used at the end of the cycle, for example, the cleaning cycle. The holding reservoir 42 may also include a port or other means, not shown, for discharging the spent solution.

[000148] As will be discussed below, tubes 52, 54, 56, 58, and liquid flow valves 62, 64, 66, 68 connect pump 20, liquid supply chamber 40, water holding reservoir liquids 42, and the application tray 100.

[000149] In some embodiments, the supply reservoir 40 and / or tubes 52, 54 may include a heat source to preheat the liquid before it is directed to the application tray 100 to be applied to the plurality of surfaces of the oral cavity. The temperature must be kept within an effective range to provide comfort to the user during use.

[000150] The power supply 32 could be electric, or in the form of replaceable or rechargeable batteries.

[000151] Application tray 100 could be integrated or separably connected to compartment 12 via tubes 54, 56 and other fastening means (not shown). It could have one or two sides with easily cleaned internal filters to capture food particles. In addition, when applied to the teeth, tray 100 will form an effective fit or seal against the gums, and includes means for directing the liquid against the surfaces of the oral cavity.

[000152] In use, the liquid in the supply reservoir 40 flows through the first tube 52 to the first chamber 26 of the pump 20. The flow of liquids through the first tube 52 is controlled by the first valve 62. From the first chamber 26 of the pump 20, liquid flows through the second tube 54 to the application tray 100. The second valve 64 controls the flow of liquids through the second tube 54. The liquid flows from the application tray 100, through the third tube 56, to the second chamber 28 of pump 20, and is controlled by the third valve 66. The second chamber 28 of the pump 20 is connected to the holding reservoir 42 by the fourth tube 58. The flow of liquid through the fourth tube 58 is controlled by the fourth valve 68.

[000153] Logic circuit 30 may include a program to cause the application tray 100 to be filled with liquid at the beginning of the cycle, a program to execute the cycle, that is, to cause the liquid to be reciprocated over the plurality of oral cavity surfaces, for example, teeth and gingival area, thus providing the beneficial effect, for example, tooth cleaning, a program to empty the application tray 100 at the end of the cycle, and a self-cleaning cycle for clean the system between uses or pre-set or automatic cleaning times. Logic circuit 30 includes means for detecting leakage of liquid, as well as means for compensating for leakage in order to maintain a relatively constant volume of liquid during the cycle. In the embodiment shown in figure 4, the means for detecting liquid leakage use pressure transducers 72, 74 located in the first chamber 26 and the second chamber 28, respectively.

[000154] Although not shown, a front panel with a series of switches and indicator lights can also be incorporated into system 10. The switches can include, but are not limited to, on / off, filling the application tray 100, run the reciprocation program, empty system 10, and clean system 10. Indicator or display lights include, but are not limited to, on, loading, running reciprocation program, system emptying, cleaning results or feedback, and self-cleaning cycle in operation. In the modalities in which the cleaning solution is preheated before being directed to the application tray 100, a display light could be used to indicate that the liquid is at the temperature suitable for use.

[000155] One method of using system 10 to clean teeth is as follows. In the first step, the user places the application tray 100 in the oral cavity over the teeth and gingival area. The user applies pressure by closing the tray 100, thus obtaining an effective seal between the gums, teeth and the tray 100. The user presses a start button that starts loading the cleaning solution within the space between the surface of the tray 100 and the teeth to be cleaned. Logic circuit 30 controls the cleaning process as follows: 1. The first valve 62 opens, the second valve 64 closes, the piston 22 moves to its leftmost position drawing liquid from the supply reservoir 40 through the first tube 52 into the first chamber 26 of pump 20. 2. The first valve 62 closes, while the second 64, the third 66, and the fourth 68 valves open. Piston 22 moves to its rightmost position, forcing the liquid through the second tube 54 to the application tray 100. 3. To properly load the system, steps 1 and 2 are repeated, pumping liquid as described above until a predetermined pressure will be detected on both pressure transducers 72, 74, indicating that an adequate amount of liquid is contained in chambers 26 and 28. Chambers 26 and 28 can be completely or partially filled, as long as the amount is effective to maintain the reciprocal movement of the liquid through the application tray and over the plurality of surfaces of the oral cavity during use. 4. The first valve 62 and the fourth valve 68 close, while the second valve 64 and the third valve 66 remain open. 5. Piston 22 moves from left to right and back, forcing the liquid to cycle back and forth through the surfaces, for example, the teeth, in the application tray 100. 6. If loss of pressure by the pressure transducer 72 or 74, steps 1 to 3 are repeated to maintain the proper volume of liquid in the first chamber 26 and in the second chamber 28 of the pump 20. 7. The process continues to run until the time necessary for the beneficial effect is obtained, for example, cleaning, having finished, the cycles are complete or the system has cycled countless times without increasing pressure, indicating that the liquid supply has run out.

[000156] In modes in which the liquid is preheated before entering application tray 100, a temperature sensor is incorporated in the circuit to inform the user that the solution is too cold to be used, and a method for heating of the solution is provided.

[000157] In some embodiments, several liquid supplies can be used, as shown in figure 5. The figure shows only the liquid supply portion of system 10 (figure 4). Logic circuit 30 controls the process as follows: 1. The first valve 62a opens, valves 62b, 62c, the second valve 64 closes, piston 22 moves to its leftmost position drawing liquid from the supply reservoir 40a through tubes 52a and 52 into the first chamber 26 of pump 20. 2. The first valve 62a closes, while the second 64, the third 66, and the fourth 68 valves open. Piston 22 moves to its rightmost position, forcing the liquid through the second tube 54 to the application tray 100. 3. To fully load the system, steps 1 and 2 are repeated, pumping liquid until the pressure is detected on both pressure transducers 72, 74. 4. The first valve 62 and the fourth valve 68 close, while the second valve 64 and the third valve 66 remain open. 5. Piston 22 moves from left to right, forcing the liquid to cycle back and forth through the mouth cavity surfaces in application tray 100. 6. If pressure is lost on the pressure transducer 72 or 74 , steps 1 to 3 are repeated, reloading the system when the pressure is increased again in the first chamber 26 and in the second chamber 28 of the pump 20. 7. The process is carried out until the time is up, the cycles are complete or the system has cycled countless times without increasing pressure, indicating that the liquid has been completely used. 8. The first valve 62a closes, valve 62b opens, valve 62c remains closed, and steps 1 through 7 are repeated with the liquid in the supply reservoir 40b. 9. The first valve 62a remains closed, valve 62b closes, valve 62c opens, and steps 1 to 7 are repeated with the cleaning solution in the liquid supply reservoir 40c.

[000158] It is important to note that this sequence can be repeated indefinitely with additional supplies of liquid in the respective supply reservoirs. In addition, the reservoir for supplying final liquid can contain water or other cleaning fluids and the system can be purged for cleaning.

[000159] The system for oral hygiene can be composed of several main components including, but not limited to, a base station, a hand tool to contain the means to provide reciprocation of the liquid on the plurality of surfaces within the oral cavity , and the application tray, or mouthpiece. The system is suitable for home use and is adapted to direct the liquid over a plurality of tooth surfaces simultaneously. The device cleans the teeth and removes plaque using a cleaning solution that is reciprocated back and forth creating a cleaning cycle and reducing the amount of cleaning solution used. The device may be portable, or it may be in the form of a table or bench device.

[000160] The base station will load a rechargeable battery in the hand tool, contain the liquid reservoirs, house the diagnostic components, provide feedback to the user, and potentially clean the mouthpiece.

[000161] The hand tool will have a pump equipped with a motor that will release liquid from the reservoir to the mouthpiece. The flow direction can be reciprocated with liquid control valves by a specialized pump (reversing its direction, etc.), reversible check valves, or other similar means. The cycle time and flow speed for each stage of the cycle will be variable and, in some modalities, will be customized for each individual user. The hand tool will perform a filling process, and a cleaning and / or purging process. The hand tool and / or base station can provide feedback to the user for each stage of the process and potentially report diagnostic information.

[000162] The hand tool will be aesthetically pleasing and will have a comfortable handle / tactile feel for the user's hand. Weight and balance will be well suited for comfortable and effective use, while providing a high-quality tactile feel. The finger grips and / or touch points will be located appropriately for comfort, grip, tactile feel, and aid in the proper orientation and location of the hand tool grip. The base station will also be aesthetically pleasing and will allow the hand tool to be attached in position easily and securely. The base station may or may not lock the hand tool in position after it is attached.

[000163] The third main component of the device is the application tray, or mouthpiece.

[000164] Figure 12 is a top perspective view of a first embodiment of a device according to the present invention, for example, application tray 100. Figure 13 is a bottom perspective view of application tray 100 of figure 12. The figures show the application tray 100 with the outer front wall 112, the outer back wall 114, the inner front wall 116, the inner back wall 118, and the base membrane, for example, the bite plate, 156. The jet pass slits of the inner front wall 132 are located on the inner front wall 116, while the jet pass slits of the inner rear wall 134 are located on the inner back wall 118. The jet pass slits of the front wall internal 132 and the jet pass slits of the inner rear wall 134 shown in figures 12 and 13 are just one embodiment of a jet pass slot configuration. The first port 142 and the second port 144 enter the application tray 100 through the outer front wall 112.

[000165] Figures 12 and 13 represent a modality of an application tray 100 in which the user's upper and lower teeth and / or gingival area are placed in contact with liquid substantially simultaneously to provide the desired beneficial effect. It should be understood that in other embodiments, the application tray 100 can be designed to clean and / or treat only the upper or lower teeth and / or the gingival area of the user.

[000166] Figures 14 and 15 are the vertical and horizontal sectional views, respectively, of the application tray 100 of figure 12. The figures show the first pipe 146, defined as the space limited by the outer front wall 112 and the inner front wall 116. The second pipe 148 is defined as the space bounded by the outer rear wall 114 and the inner rear wall 118. The liquid contact chamber (LCC) 154 is defined by the inner front wall 116, the inner back wall 118, and through the base membrane 156.

[000167] In a one-way operation, the liquid enters the first pipeline 146 through the first port 142 by pressure and then enters the LCC 154 through the jet passage slits of the inner front wall 132. A vacuum is drawn into the second port 144 to pull the liquid through the slots for jet passage of the inner rear wall 134, into the second pipe 148 and finally into the second port 144. In this embodiment, jets of liquid are first directed to the front surfaces of the teeth and / or gingival area on one side of LCC 154, directed through, between, and around tooth surfaces and / or gingival area on the other side of LCC 154 into the second pipe to provide controlled cleaning or treatment of the interdental area, the gum line, the gingival surface and / or area. Then, the flow in the pipes is reversed. The cleaning liquid enters the second pipe 148 through the second port 144 by pressure and then enters the LCC 154 through the jet passage slits of the inner rear wall 134. A vacuum is drawn in the first port 142 to pull the liquid through from the slots for jet passage of the internal anterior wall 132, into the first pipe 146 and finally into the first port 142. In the second portion of this modality, jets of liquid are directed to the posterior surfaces of the teeth and / or gingival area, and directed through, between, and around the surfaces of the teeth and / or gingival area. The pressure / vacuum relay for numerous cycles creates a turbulent, repeatable and reversible flow to provide reciprocating of liquid over the plurality of surfaces of the oral cavity to bring the surfaces of the oral cavity into contact with liquid substantially simultaneously, thus providing the desired beneficial effect.

[000168] In another embodiment, it may be preferable to apply the liquid through one or both pipes simultaneously, fill the LCC 154, submerge the teeth for a period of time, and then empty the LCC 154 after a period of time established through one or both of the pipes. Here, the cleaning or treatment liquid enters the first pipe 146 simultaneously through the first port 142, and the second pipe 148 through the second port 144 by pressure and then enters the LCC 154 simultaneously through the slots for the jet passage of the wall inner front 132 and the slots for jet passage of the inner back wall 134. To empty the LCC 154, a vacuum is drawn simultaneously in the first pipe 146 through the first port 142, and in the second pipe 148 through the second port 144. The liquid cleaning or treatment is pulled through the jet pass slits of the inner front wall 132 and the jet pass slits of the inner back wall 134 into the first pipe 146 and the second pipe 148.

[000169] It is also possible to deliver different liquid compositions to the first pipe 146 and the second pipe 148. The different liquid compositions could then be combined in the LCC for cleaning efficacy or optimized treatment effects.

[000170] Figure 16 is a top rear perspective view of a second embodiment of an application tray 1100 according to the present invention. Figure 17 is an upper anterior perspective view of the application tray 1100 of figure 16, while figure 18 is a top view of the application tray of figure 16. The figures show the application tray 1100 with the top piece 1102, a lower part 1104, first door 1142, second door 1144 and support plate 1108 fixedly fixed in front of said application tray. The first port 1142 and the second port 1144 enter application tray 1100 and extend through support plate 1108.

[000171] Optional quick-disconnect structures, for example, hooks, 1110 are attached to the support plate 1108, allowing the application tray 1100 to be attached quickly and easily and then disconnected from the means for supplying liquid to the application tray, such as may be contained in compartment 12 of device 10, as shown in figure 4. The compartment could include an effective structure for receiving such quick-disconnect hooks, or a similar quick-disconnect structure, which can be joined, to connect in a way separable the application tray from the compartment. The quick disconnect option could be used to replace used or worn application trays or to exchange application trays for different users. In some embodiments, a single user can change the application trays to change the flow characteristics for different options, such as the number of cleaning nozzles, nozzle speed, spray pattern, and locations, coverage area, etc.

[000172] Figures 16 to 19 represent a modality of an application tray 1100 in which the user's upper and lower teeth and / or gingival area are placed in contact with liquid substantially simultaneously. It should be understood that in other modalities, the 1100 application tray can be designed to place only the upper or lower teeth or the user's gingival area in contact with the liquid.

[000173] The upper part 1102 has the front liquid lumens 1102a, 1102b, 1102c, and 1102d, rear liquid lumens 1102e, 1102f, and 1102g, the first pipe 1146, the second pipe 1148, the base membrane 1156, and the 1158 posterior gum sealing membrane. The front liquid lumens 1102a, 1102b, 1102c, and 1102d are all connected by the first pipe 1146 and, optionally (as shown in figures 16 to 19), connected to each other throughout or part of its length. Similarly, the rear liquid lumens 1102e, 1102f, and 1102g, are all connected by the second pipe 1148 and, optionally, connected to each other over all or part of their lengths.

[000174] The lower part 1104, can be a mirror image of the upper part 1102, and has the front liquid lumens 1104a, 1104b, 1104c, and 1104d, the rear liquid lumens 1104e, 1104f, and 1104g, the first pipe 1146, the second pipe 1148, the base membrane 1156, and the posterior gingival sealing membrane 1158. The front liquid lumens 1104a, 1104b, 1104c and 1104d are all connected by the first pipe 1146 and optionally (as shown in the figures 16 to 19), connected to each other along all or part of their lengths. Similarly, the rear liquid lumens 1104e, 1104f, and 1104g are all connected by the second pipe 1148 and, optionally, connected to each other over all or part of their lengths.

[000175] Although figures 16 and 17 show the upper part 1102 with four front liquid lumens (1102a, 1102b, 1102c, and 1102d) and three rear liquid lumens (1102e, 1102f, and 1102g), the upper part 1102 can , also, be formed with two, three, five, six, or even seven lumens for front or rear liquids. Similarly, the lower part 1104 is shown with four front liquid lumens (1104a, 1104b, 1104c, and 1104d) and three rear liquid lumens (1104e, 1104f, and 1104g), the lower part 1104 can also be formed with two, three, five, six, or even seven lumens for front or rear liquids.

[000176] The liquid contact chamber ((LCC) 1154a, mentioned above, is located in the upper part 1102, defined by the front liquid lumens (1102a, 1102b, 1102c, and 1102d), rear liquid lumens (1102e, 1102f, and 1102g), base membrane 1156, and posterior gum sealing membrane 1158. Although not shown, the bottom part 1104 also has an LCC 1154b, defined by the front liquid lumens (1104a, 1104b, 1104c, and 1104d) , rear liquid lumens (1104e, 1104f, and 1104g), 1156 base membrane, and 1158 posterior gingival membrane.

[000177] The design of several lumens provides bidirectional or dedicated lumens for flow and vacuum that are self-reinforcing and therefore do not flatten under vacuum or break under pressure during use, maximizing structural integrity, while reducing the size of the 1100 application tray as a whole for user comfort during insertion, use, and removal. This reduced size also serves to provide an intensified effective seal of the application tray in the oral cavity.

[000178] If several lumens (1102a, 1102b, 1102c, 1102d, 1102e, 1102f, 1102g, 1104a, 1104b, 1104c, 1104d, 1104e, 1104f, and 1104g) are connected as described above, they form lumen hinge sections ( 1103 in figure 17). This can result in the design of several lumens that provides conformation in the X, Y and Z directions, due to the flexibility of the 1103 lumen hinge sections between each lumen. This design allows for effective and feasible tooth shaping and gingival topography for a variety of different users, providing effective gum sealing without irritating the gums and allowing dynamic positioning of the liquid cleaning jets around each tooth to achieve proximal and interdental cleaning. The various lumens are also attached to the first pipe 1146 and the second pipe 1148. This creates a secondary flexible joint that provides two additional degrees of movement to adjust to the different bite architectures that can be found.

[000179] The 1158 posterior gingival sealing membrane shows a flexible and universal sealing mechanism to minimize leakage into the oral cavity, while redirecting the flow to and around the teeth, to increase the treatment / cleaning area to reach places difficult to access (HTRP). The membrane can cause an elastic function across the longitudinal axis of the lumen to be formed around the teeth and gums.

[000180] The 1156 base membrane provides the necessary flexibility to fit or seal effectively within the oral cavity and allows the redirection and flow of jets towards the surfaces of the teeth and / or gums.

[000181] Optionally, the 1100 application tray could also include a gum sealing component, if necessary, which could be attached to the front liquid lumens 1102a, 1102b, 1104a, and 1104b, and the rear liquid lumens 1102e and 1104e (furthest limb).

[000182] Optionally, friction elements such as tufts of filaments could also be placed or secured through any of the hinge sections of lumen 1103 without significantly increasing the size of the 1100 application tray, or affecting user comfort or flow of liquids in the 1100 application tray.

[000183] The slots for the jet passage of the inner front wall 1132 are located on the inner front wall of the upper part 1102 and the lower part 1104, while the slots for the jet passage of the inner rear wall 1134 are located on the inner rear wall of the part upper part 1102 and the lower part 1104. Although only a slot for jet passage of the inner front wall 1132 and a slot for jet passage of the inner back wall 1134 are shown in figures 13 to 16, the number, shape and size of the jet pass slits in the inner front wall 1132 and jet pass slits in the inner back wall 1134 affect the cleaning of teeth and gums, and can be designed to target jets of cleaning fluid in a variety of spray patterns. The jet pass slits of the inner front wall 1132 and the jet pass slits of the inner rear wall 1134 shown in figures 16 to 19 are just one embodiment of the jet pass slot configuration.

[000184] Figures 16 and 17 represent a modality of an application tray 1100 in which the surfaces of the upper and lower teeth and / or the gingival area of the users are brought into contact with liquid substantially simultaneously to provide the desired beneficial effect. It should be understood that, in other modalities, the 1100 application tray can be designed to contact only the upper or lower teeth and / or the user's gingival area.

[000185] Figure 19 is a sectional view of the application tray 1100 of figure 16. The figure shows the first pipe 1146 and the second pipe 1148. In one embodiment of a cleaning operation, the cleaning liquid is pumped through the first port 1142, and enters the first pipe 1146 through the first flow diverter 1143. The liquid enters the front liquid lumens 1102a, 1102b, 1102c, 1102d, 1104a, 1104b, 1104c and 1104d through the front lumen ports for liquid 1147 The cleaning liquid then enters the LCCs 1154a and 1154b through the jet pass slits of the internal front wall 1132. Vacuum is drawn in the second port 1144 to pull the cleaning liquid through the jet pass slits of the internal rear wall 1134 , into the rear liquid lumens 1102e, 1102f, 1102g, 1104e, 1104f, and 1104g. The liquid enters the second pipeline 1148 through the rear liquid lumen ports 1149 and then through the second flow diverter 1145, and finally into the second port 1144.

[000186] In this embodiment, jets of cleaning liquid are first directed from the first pipe 1146 to the front surfaces of the teeth and / or gingival area on one side of the LCCs, directed through, between, and around the surfaces of the teeth and / or gingival area on the other side of the LCCs into the second 1148 tubing to provide controlled cleaning or treatment of the interdental area, gum line, surface and / or gingival area.

[000187] Then, the flow in the pipes is reversed. The cleaning liquid is pumped through the second port 1144, and enters the second pipe 1148 through the second flow diverter 1145. The liquid in the rear liquid lumens 1102e, 1102f, 1102g, 1104e, 1104f, and 1104g through the lumen ports for rear fluids 1149. The cleaning fluid then enters the LCCs 1154a and 1154b through the jet pass slits in the inner rear wall 1134. Vacuum is pulled into the first port 1142 to pull the cleaning fluid through the jet pass slots in the inner front wall 1132, into the front liquid lumens 1102a, 1102b, 1102c, 1102d, 1104a, 1104b, 1104c and 1104d. The liquid enters the first line 1146 through the front liquid lumen ports 1147 and then through the first flow diverter 1143, and finally into the first port 1144.

[000188] In the second portion of this modality, jets of cleaning liquid are directed to the posterior surfaces of the teeth and / or gingival area, and directed through, between, and around the surfaces of the teeth and / or gingival area. The pressure / vacuum relay for numerous cycles creates a turbulent, repeatable and reversible flow to provide reciprocating of liquid over the plurality of surfaces of the oral cavity to bring the surfaces of the oral cavity into contact with liquid substantially simultaneously, thus providing the desired beneficial effect.

[000189] In another embodiment, it may be preferable to apply the liquid through one or both pipes simultaneously, filling the LLCs 1154a and 1154b, submerging the teeth for a period of time and then emptying the LCCs after an established period of time through one or both of the pipes. Here, the cleaning or treatment liquid is pumped simultaneously through the first port 1142 into the first pipe 1146 through the first flow diverter 1143, and through the second port 1144 into the second pipe 1148 through the second flow diverter 1145. The liquid then enters the front liquid lumens 1102a, 1102b, 1102c, 1102d, 1104a, 1104b, 1104c and 1104d simultaneously through the front liquid lumen ports 1147, and the rear liquid lumens 1102e, 1102f, 1102g, 1104e, 1104f , and 1104g through the rear lumen fluid ports 1149. The cleaning fluid then enters the LCCs 1154a and 1154b through the jet pass slits in the inner front wall 1132 and the jet pass slits in the inner back wall 1134. For to empty the LCCs, a vacuum is drawn simultaneously in the first pipe 1146 through the first port 1142, and in the second pipe 1148 through the second port 1144. The liquid The cleaning or treatment device is pulled through the jet passage slits of the inner front wall 1132 and the jet passage slits of the inner back wall 1134, into the first pipe 146 and the second pipe 148.

[000190] It is also possible to deliver different liquid compositions to the first pipe 1146 and the second pipe 1148. The different liquid compositions could then be combined in the LCC for cleaning efficacy or optimized treatment effects. In the dual tubing design, it may be preferable to supply each tubing from a separate liquid supply reservoir, such as in a double-acting piston pump configuration, where a supply line connects to supply the first 1146 tubing and the other piston supply line supplies and removes liquid from the second pipe 1148, for example, when one pipe is being supplied with liquid, the second pipe is removing liquid, and vice versa.

[000191] In other embodiments, the valves can be placed on the front lumen doors for liquid 1147 of the front lumens for liquid 1102a, 1102b, 1102c, 1102d, 1104a, 1104b, 1104c and 1104d, or on the rear lumen doors for liquid 1149 of the rear liquid lumens 1102e, 1102f, 1102g, 1104e, 1104f, and 1104g to provide enhanced function by allowing the lumens to engage at different times (at different points in the cleaning / treatment cycle) at pulsed intervals. As an example, in one embodiment, not all lumens are involved with the liquid / vacuum pumping function. Here, the front liquid lumens 1102a and 1104a, and the rear liquid lumens 1102e and 1104e, which fit mainly with the gums, engage only in the liquid's vacuum function. This would help to prevent leakage of liquid into the oral cavity. The valves also provide variable flow, allowing a reduced resistance to the liquid's vacuum function or allowing an increase in pumping and, therefore, in the speed of the liquid during the release of the liquid.

[000192] In still other embodiments, the slits for jet passage of the internal inner wall 1132 or the slots for jet passage of the internal rear wall 1134 may have integrated one-way valves, such as duckbill valves or conical valves to allow flow in only one direction from those of the specific jets. This can be effective in increasing the vacuum in relation to the pressure / release in the LCC.

[000193] In some embodiments, the movement of the friction elements discussed above in relation to the teeth could be applied by a single mechanism or combination of mechanisms, including, but not limited to, the liquid (through the slots for jet passage or through flow turbulence); membrane movement through the pulsation of the flexible application tray 1100; an external vibrating mechanism for vibrating the friction elements; linear and / or rotational movement of the 1100 application tray around the teeth through the movement of the user's jaw or external targeting means.

[000194] In other embodiments, a conformable substance, such as a gel, can be disposed close to the 1158 posterior gingival sealing membrane allowing the 1100 application tray to fit comfortably against the back of the mouth. Alternatively, the end of the 1100 application tray may have a mechanism or fixation to extend or shorten the nozzle length to the length suitable for each individual user, providing a semi-personalized fit.

[000195] The manufacture of multi-lumen design is feasible with the use of existing manufacturing and assembly processes available such as extrusion, injection, vacuum, blowing, or compacting. Other feasible techniques include rapid prototyping techniques such as three-dimensional printing and other additive techniques, as well as subtractive techniques.

[000196] The application tray can be custom-made for each individual user, or it can be customized by the individual user before use. For custom manufacturing of the application tray, vacuum-formed molds can be created directly or indirectly from the impressions of the user's teeth and gums, creating a model of the teeth that can then be modified to create free spans and necessary flow channels. These vacuum-formed molds can be created at low cost using CAD processes and rapid prototyping.

[000197] One manufacturing method is to create individual component housings through vacuum forming. Low cost methods allow vacuum formation of very thin wall structures. The component geometry is designed to provide integration features and structural geometry to allow for a reduction in the size of the application tray. When assembled, the manufactured components form the necessary flow structures and piping (bidirectional and / or dedicated piping) to provide the performance characteristics required for the treatment / cleaning of teeth.

[000198] Customized mouthpieces are based on the geometry of the user's teeth, thus creating a consistent distance between the mouthpiece and the teeth, which can provide a more consistent cleaning / treatment experience. The materials for each of the two-piece housings may be different, therefore allowing for a softer material (in the inner housing) where it comes into contact with the teeth / gums and a more rigid material in the outer housing to maintain rigidity and general format.

[000199] For application trays that can be customized, the tray preforms (similar to sports mouth guards or teeth grinding devices) containing prefabricated pipes, nozzles and channels, are manufactured in bulk. Tray preforms can be created using a variety of known manufacturing techniques including, but not limited to, blow molding, vacuum forming, injection molding and / or compacting. The material used in the preform would be a low temperature deformable plastic material. The preform would be used in conjunction with spacers needed to be applied over the teeth to provide the necessary clearance, cleaning and / or treatment performance. Once the gap components are applied to the teeth, the preform would be heated by microwave or by being placed in boiling water in order to become malleable. The malleable preform would be applied over the user's teeth and gingival area to create the custom application tray.

[000200] The application tray can be integrated with pressure elements to allow elastic conformation to increase positioning, comfort and performance during application and in use. For example, spring-like elements such as wedges, loops and elastic bands can provide fit over and against the gums.

[000201] The materials for the MP lumen could range from materials with a shorter durometer (25 shore A) to more rigid materials (90 shore A), preferably between 40 and 70 shore A.

[000202] The materials could be silicone, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), ethylene - vinyl acetate (EVA), polyurethane (PU), or multi-components (combination of materials and hardness content) to achieve the desired design and performance attributes.

[000203] The openings or cracks for passing jets could be made through a secondary operation such as drilling or punching, or they could be formed during molding. Alternatively, the jet passage openings or crevices could be inserted into the application tray to provide increased wear resistance and / or different jet performance characteristics and could be combined with chafing elements or other components to improve the effect of cleaning and / or treatment.

[000204] Figures 20 to 23 represent a modality of an application tray 1200 in which only the upper or lower teeth and the gingival area of the user are placed in contact with liquid. It should be understood that in other embodiments, the application tray 1200 can be designed to contact substantially simultaneously with both the upper and lower teeth and the user's gingival area, as shown elsewhere in this document.

[000205] Figure 20 is a top anterior perspective view of a third embodiment of an application tray 1200 according to the present invention. Figure 21 is an upper rear view of the application tray 1200 model of figure 20, while figure 22 is a lower rear view of application tray 1200 of figure 20. The figures show application tray 1200 with the outer front wall. 1212, the outer rear wall 1214, the inner front wall 1216, and the inner back wall 1218. The jet pass slots in the inner front wall 1232 are located in the inner front wall 1216, while the jet pass slits in the back wall inner 1234 are located on inner inner wall 1218. The first port 1244 and the second port 1242 enter application tray 1200 through the outer outer wall 1212.

[000206] The number and location of the slot for the jet passage of the inner front wall 1232 and the slot for the jet passage of the inner back wall 1234 as shown in figures 20 to 23 is exemplary and is not intended to limit the scope of the tray of application. The actual number, shape and size of the nozzle slots for the inner anterior wall 1232 and the nozzle slots for the inner posterior wall 1234 affect the cleaning of teeth and gums, and can be selected or designed to direct jets of cleaning liquid in a variety of spray patterns. The jet pass slits of the inner front wall 1232 and the jet pass slits of the inner rear wall 1234 shown in figures 20 to 22 are just one embodiment of the jet pass slot configuration.

[000207] Figure 23 is a vertical sectional view of application tray 1200 of figure 20. The figures show the first pipe 1246, defined as the space bounded by the outer front wall 1212 and the inner front wall 1216. The second pipe 1248 it is defined as the space bounded by the outer rear wall 1214 and the inner rear wall 1218. The liquid contact chamber (LCC) 1254 is defined by the inner front wall 1216, the inner back wall 1218 and the inner base wall 1250.

[000208] In a cleaning operation mode, the liquid enters the first pipe 1246 through the first port 1244 by pressure and then enters the LCC 1254 through the slots for the jet passage of the inner front wall 1232. A vacuum is pulled in the second port 1242 to pull the cleaning liquid through the jet passage slits of the inner rear wall 1234, into the second pipe 1248 and finally into the second port 1242. In this embodiment, jets of cleaning liquid are first directed to the front side of the teeth on one side of the LCC, directed through, between, and around the teeth on the other side of the LCC into the second pipe to provide controlled cleaning of the interdental area, the gum line, the surface and / or gingival area. Then, the flow in the pipes is reversed. The cleaning liquid enters the second pipe 1248 through the second port 1242 by pressure and then enters the LCC 1254 through the jet passage slits in the inner rear wall 1234. A vacuum is drawn in the first port 1244 to pull the liquid from cleaning through the jet pass slits of the inner front wall 1232, into the first pipe 1246 and finally into the first port 1244. In the second portion of this modality, jets of cleaning liquid are directed to the back of the and directed through, between, and around the teeth and / or gingival area. The relay of pressure / vacuum for innumerable cycles creates a turbulent, repeatable and reversible flow, thus providing reciprocation of liquid on and around the surfaces of the oral cavity.

[000209] It is also possible to deliver different liquid compositions to the first pipe 1246 and the second pipe 1248. The different liquid compositions could then be combined in the LCC for optimum cleaning efficacy. In the dual piping design, it may be preferable to supply each piping from a separate chamber, such as in a double-acting piston pump configuration, where a supply line connects to supply the first 1246 piping and the other pipeline. piston feed supplies and removes liquid from the second 1248 pipe (when one pipe is being supplied, the second pipe is removing and vice versa.

[000210] One embodiment of a handheld device used with the devices according to the present invention is shown in figures 24a to 24e. Figure 24a is an exploded view of a hand tool 3000 which pumps liquid to and pulls liquid from the application tray, thereby providing reciprocation of the liquid to and from the application tray. In this modality, the 3000 device is designed in a modular way, with a pumping section, a vacuum section, a reciprocating section, and pumping and actuation sections. Modular construction provides easier design for fabrication (DFM), with easy assembly and repair. The mode is also designed to minimize the size of the device as well as the amount of liquid used in operation.

[000211] Device 3000 includes outlet tubes 3010a and 3010b, reciprocating flow controller 710, top section of inlet disc 3050, bottom section of inlet disc 3090, sleeve of application cylinder 3110 with the bubble break plate 3115 and the 3112 application cylinder filler tube, the separator plates 3210, 3310, the vacuum end discs 3250, 3290, the vacuum piston 3270, the vacuum cylinder sleeve 3410, the piston rod 3460, splitter rod 3470, and derailleur drive gear 3472.

[000212] An exploded view of the pumping section of device 3000 is shown in figure 24b. The figure shows the outlet tubes 3010 attached to the cap 720 of the reciprocating flow controller 710. The flow diverter disc 730, with the position adjuster 732 in the form of a gear, is arranged on the cap 720 and rests on the base 740. Sealing ring 736 is between flow diverter disk 730 and base 740. Base ports 742 and 744 pass through base 740. Panel 735 for diverting liquid flow is arranged on flow diverter disk 730 The top section of the input disk 3050 has the ports of the top section of the input disk 3051, 3052, 3053, and 3054, and is separated from the base 740 by the seal 3030. The bottom section of the input disk 3090 has the bottom section ports of the inlet disc 3091, 3092, 3095, 3096. The double-flap valve 3070 is between the top section of the inlet disc 3050 and the bottom section of the inlet disc 3090, with the two flaps of the 3070 double flap valve above the bottom section ports of the inlet disc 3091 and 3092 and below the ports of the top section of the inlet disc 3052 and 3053. The port of the bottom section of the inlet disc 3091 includes a one-way valve 3093, which allows liquid to flow from the port of the top section of the inlet disc 3052 to the bottom section port of the inlet disc 3091 through the double flap valve 3070. The bottom section port of the inlet disc 3092 includes a 3094 one-way valve, which allows liquid to flow from the bottom section port from the inlet disc 3092 to the top section door of the inlet disc 3053 through the double-flap valve 3070. The bottom section of the inlet disc 3090 is arranged over the sleeve of the application cylinder 3110. The application is willing to along the application cylinder sleeve 3110, while the application piston 3130 is arranged in the volume defined by the application cylinder sleeve 3110. The bubble break plate 3115 is arranged over the cylinder sleeve 3110. The application volume No. 3114 is the volume defined by the 3110 application cylinder sleeve minus the 3130 application piston volume.

[000213] Figure 24c is an exploded view of the vacuum section of device 3000. The figure shows the separator plate 3210, with the separator plate doors 3212 and 3214, arranged on the 3250 vacuum end disk. The end disk vacuum 3250 has vacuum end disk ports 3251 and 3252. Flap valves 3230a and 3230b are between the separator plate 3210 and vacuum end discs 3250. Flap valves 3230a and 3230b are above the ports of the vacuum end disk 3251 and 3252 and below the separator plate ports 3212 and 3214. The vacuum end disk 3251 port includes a one-way valve 3253 that allows liquid to flow from the 3251 vacuum end disk port to the separator plate port 3214 through flap valve 3230a. The 3252 vacuum end disc port includes a 3254 one-way valve that allows liquid to flow from the 3212 separator plate port to the 3252 vacuum end disc port through the flap valve 3230b. The vacuum piston 3270, arranged under the vacuum end discs 3250, has the orifice of the piston rod 3272 through which the piston rod 3460 passes. Below the vacuum piston 3270 is the vacuum end disk 3290, disposed on the separator plate 3310. The vacuum end disk 3290 has the ports of the vacuum end disk 3291 and 3292. The separator plate 3310 has the doors of the separator plate 3312 and 3314. Flap valves 3230c and 3230d are between the vacuum end disk 3290 and the separator plate 3310, above the doors of the vacuum end disk 3291 and 3292 and below the doors of the separator plate 3312 and 3314 The 3291 vacuum end disk port includes a 3293 one-way valve that allows liquid to flow from the 3291 vacuum end disk ports towards the separator plate port 3314 through the flap valve 3230c. The 3292 vacuum end disc port includes a 3294 one-way valve, which allows liquid to flow from the separator plate port 3312 to the 3292 vacuum end disc port through the flap valve 3230d.

[000214] Figure 24d is a side view of a drive system for the pumping and drive sections of the 3000 device. The 3420 mechanism drives the rod 3422, which is connected to the crankshaft arms 3430a and 3430b, and the threaded gear end 3450. Crankshaft arms 3430a and 3430b are connected to the connecting arm of crankshaft 3435, which is connected to piston rod 3460. The piston rod 3460 is attached to the vacuum piston 3270 and, although not shown, to the piston application 3130. The split rod 3470 is in contact with the worm gear 3450, which is connected to the propeller gear of the diverter 3472. When the rod 3412 rotates, the crankshaft arms 3430a, 3430b and the connecting arm of crankshaft 3435 convert the rotating movement of stem 3422 into a linear reciprocating movement on piston rod 3460, so that vacuum piston 3270 and application piston 3130 move up and down. At the same time, the worm gear 3450 converts the rotary movement of the stem 3422 into a rotary movement of the split stem 3470. The split stem 3470 rotates the drive gear of the diverter 3472, which is connected to the position adjuster 732 on the controller of reciprocating flow 710.

[000215] Figure 24e is a sectional view of the device 3000, showing the spatial relationships between the components in the pumping section, in the vacuum section, and in the pumping and actuation sections. The volume of cylinder 3412 is the volume of the sleeve of the vacuum cylinder 3410 not occupied by the components of the pumping section, the vacuum section, and the pumping and actuation sections, and serves as the reservoir for liquids in the mode shown. The general operation of the 3000 device is as follows: 1. The 3000 device is sufficiently filled with cleaning liquid. The liquid is initially in the volume of cylinder 3412 of the sleeve of the vacuum cylinder 3410. 2. The user inserts any type of an application tray, for example, the application tray 100 or 1100, in the mouth. The device 3000 can be activated by a sensor (pressure sensor, proximity sensor, etc.) or the device can be activated by the user. The cleaning cycle starts. 3. In the "downward movement" of piston rod 3460, the application piston 3130 draws liquid from the bottom of the cylinder volume 3412. The liquid flows through the filling tube of the application cylinder 3112, from the port of the bottom section of the cylinder. inlet disc 3095, top section port of inlet disc 3051, top section port of inlet disc 3052, double-flap valve 3070, and one-way valve 3093 in bottom port of disc in inlet 3091, and into application volume 3114. It is preferable that the inlet port 3116 in the filling tube of the application cylinder 3112 is located at the bottom of the tube to reduce the total liquid required for cleaning / treatment and to avoid drawing air into application volume 3114. 4. In the "upward movement" of piston rod 3260, application piston 3130 forces the liquid through the bottom section port of the inlet disc 3092 with the 3094 one-way valve. The liquid flows through the valve double-flap 3070, through the top section door of the inlet disk 3053 and finally through the base port 742 of the reciprocating flow controller 710. 5. The flow of liquids through the reciprocating flow controller 710 was described earlier using figure 9c and figure 9d. In summary, when the reciprocating flow controller 710 is in its first position (figure 9c), the inlet liquid from the top section of the inlet disc 3053 enters the reciprocating flow controller 710 through the base port 742. The liquid exits the reciprocating flow controller 710 through the cover port 722, flowing into outlet tube 3010b. The return liquid, flowing through the outlet tube 3010a, re-enters the reciprocating flow controller 710 through the cover port 724. The liquid exits the reciprocating flow controller 710 through the base port 744. When the reciprocating flow controller 710 is in its second position (figure 9d), the inlet liquid from the top section door of the inlet disc 3053 enters the reciprocating flow controller 710 through the base port 742. The liquid exits the reciprocating flow controller 710 through cover door 724 flowing into outlet tube 3010a. The return liquid, flowing through the outlet tube 3010b, enters the reciprocating flow controller 710 again through the cover port 722. The liquid exits the reciprocating flow controller 710 again through the base port 744. The reciprocating liquid from Cleaning in application tray 100 of figure 1 is achieved by switching the reciprocating flow controller 710 between its first and second position. As shown in figure 24d, the reciprocating flow controller 710 alternating between its first and second positions is achieved by worm gear 3450, which converts the rotary motion of the rod 3422 into a rotary motion of the split rod 3470. A splitter rod 3470 rotates the drive gear of diverter 3472, which is connected to position adjuster 732 on the reciprocating flow controller 710. Although shown to rotate continuously in this mode, it should be understood that the reciprocating flow controller 710 can be driven by separate means , like another engine. In addition, the time interval for switching the reciprocating flow controller 710 between its first and second positions may, in some embodiments, be between about 1 and about 100 seconds, or between about 2 and about 10 seconds, and can be changed over the course of cleaning / treatment. 6. In the present embodiment, the vacuum section of the device 3000 is effective during the "upward movement" and "downward movement" of the 3260 piston rod. The 3270 vacuum piston has a double action and draws liquid from the application tray 100 in both the upward and downward motion of the vacuum piston 3270. The liquid that flows through the base port 744 of the reciprocating flow controller 710 flows through the top section port of the 3054 inlet disc and continues through the port of the bottom section of the inlet disc 3096, reaching the vacuum return tube 3412. The liquid in the vacuum return tube 3412 is then extracted for vacuum volumes 3275a or 3275b. The vacuum volume 3275a is the volume between the vacuum end disk 3250 and the vacuum piston 3270. The vacuum volume 3275b is the volume between the vacuum end disk 3290 and the vacuum piston 3270. During "movement upwards "from piston rod 3260, the liquid in the vacuum return tube 3412 is extracted through the separator plate port 3312, and flows through the flap valve 3230d, the one-way valve 3294, and the end disk port of vacuum 3292, reaching vacuum volume 3275b. During the "downward movement" of piston rod 3260, the liquid in the vacuum return tube 3412 is drawn through the separator plate port 3212, and flows through the flap valve 3230b, the one-way valve 3254, and the vacuum end disk 3222, reaching vacuum volume 3275a. As noted, the vacuum piston 3270, in this mode, has double action, drawing liquid from the application tray 100 in both the upward and downward movement of the vacuum piston 3270. So while the vacuum volume 3275b is drawing liquid of the vacuum return tube 3412, the liquid in the vacuum volume 3275a is being pumped into the volume of the cylinder 3412. In contrast, while the vacuum volume 3275b is extracting liquid from the vacuum return tube 3412, the liquid in the volume vacuum 3275a is being pumped into cylinder volume 3412. During the "upward movement" of piston rod 3260, the liquid in vacuum volume 3275a is pumped through the 3251 vacuum end disc port, and flows through the one-way valve 3253, the flap valve 3230a, and the separator plate port 3214, reaching cylinder volume 3412. During the "downward movement" of piston rod 3260, the liquid in the vacuum volume 3275b it is pumped through the vacuum end disk port 3291, and flows through the one-way valve 3293, the flap valve 3230c, and the separator plate port 3314, reaching cylinder volume 3412. 7. The cycle continues with the cycles comprising "upward movements" and "downward movements" of piston rod 3260, with movement of liquid through device 3000, as described in steps 3 to 6 above.

[000216] The ratio between the total volume of vacuum volumes 3275a and 3275b and application volume 3114 can be any range, such as 1: 1, optionally, about 3: 1 or more, or about 4: 1 or more . Since the application piston 3130 releases liquid only in "half" of the pumping / emptying cycle, while the vacuum piston 3270 works in both halves of the cycle, the ratio of the volume of liquid released to the application tray 100 and the volume of liquid extracted from the application tray 100 is 8: 1 per cycle. The 3270 double-acting vacuum piston also provides vacuum during half the stroke, when the 3130 application piston is not releasing liquid, increasing the opportunity to recover liquid from application tray 100, as well as eliminate additional liquid that has leaked from the application tray. application 100 into the oral cavity. Tests have shown that a minimum volumetric ratio of 3: 1 between liquid emptying and liquid release per stroke provided the vacuum necessary to minimize leakage from the application tray 100 into the oral cavity when the tray has a marginal gingiva, which can occur in modalities of a universal application tray design (designed to adapt to a range of people) 100.

[000217] In some embodiments, the vacuum piston 3270 has a unique action. However, a 3270 double-acting vacuum piston may have some advantages.

[000218] In some embodiments, the volume of cylinder 3412 may have an air separator to reduce foaming. In addition, a breathing passage may be necessary so that the pumping / vacuum system is not too pressurized and crashes / fails. The breathing passage may be on the opposite side of cylinder volume 3412 from the port exits of the separator plate 3214 and 3314 to prevent liquid from splashing out of the breathing passage. In addition, there may be a wall to separate the 3412 cylinder volume into two halves, to further reduce the chance of liquid splashing out of the breathing passage.

[000219] In general, cylinder volume 3412 is vented since more liquid is being released into cylinder volume 3412 from the vacuum system than is being extracted from the release system. The excess (air) is exhausted from a breather in cylinder volume 3412. The breather could use a valve, such as a conical valve, for air to escape, but not be able to enter the reservoir from the same opening, or a bidirectional valve or ventilation hole. To further reduce the loss of liquid through the breather, a wall can be used to divide the 3412 cylinder volume into two parts. One side contains the supply line, and the other side contains the breather. To improve the separation of air from the liquid in the 3412 cylinder volume, an air separator can be placed in the reservoir, below the supply line. When the liquid falls from the supply line into cylinder volume 3412, it passes through an air separator, which can be a solid plate with holes. This allows the liquid to pass, while removing entrained air and helps to separate the two liquid states (liquid versus gas). The air separator can have several designs, such as a solid sloped shelf with holes, a spiral slope, a spiral slope with holes, two or more levels of sloped slots with holes, several spiral slopes similar to several start points for threads (bottle caps, etc.), lumps located sporadically that the liquid reaches when it falls, aiding separation.

[000220] In one embodiment, the handheld device will be a portable, one-piece unit with a rechargeable battery, it will have a piston pump driven by an engine for applying liquid, it will have a mechanism to control the flow of liquids, it will keep the temperature inside of a specified range, will have a modular design and will have ergonomics well suited to the user's hand. When the hand tool is in the base station, it will recharge the battery, the liquid reservoirs in the hand tool will be refilled from those in the base station, and samples and / or diagnostic information will be exchanged with the base. It can also go through a cleaning process.

[000221] Figures 25a to 25d show an example of representation of a dental cleaning system modality 2000. The figures show dental cleaning system 2000, showing handheld device 2220, base station 2240, and reservoir for 2250 base station liquids. The 2250 base station liquid reservoir is used to refill the liquid reservoirs on the 2220 device. The 2100 application tray is shown attached to the 2220 device.

[000222] In this mode, the liquid port of the base station 2245 is the conduit through which the cleaning or treatment liquid passes from the liquid reservoir of the base station 2250 to the liquid reservoirs in the device 2220. The liquid leaves the liquid reservoir of the base station 2250 through the port of the liquid reservoir of the base station 2255, and enters the liquid reservoirs on the device 2220 through the port 2225.

[000223] When on the 2240 base station, the 2220 device's internal battery will recharge, and the liquid reservoirs on the 2220 device will refill from those on the 2240 base station. Any diagnostic information on the 2220 device will be exchanged with the base station 2240. The 2220 device can also go through a cleaning process.

[000224] In other modalities, a piston pump with check valves will be used for the release of liquid.

[000225] In still other modalities, a rotary piston pump will be used to release liquid. This pump is known to those skilled in the art, and the piston rotates while it alternates, therefore not needing valves to function. Reversing the direction of rotation of the drive motor will reverse the direction of liquid flow.

[000226] In still other modalities, diaphragm pumps, gear pumps, or double-acting piston pumps will be used to release liquids. In the case of double-acting piston pumps, when the liquid system is loaded, this type of pump has the benefit of switching the direction of liquid flow to the mouthpiece. Loaded pneumatic cylinders, the hand pump, or rotary pumps can be used to drive the system.

Example:

[000227] A test was carried out, in which 4 individuals used the devices according to the present invention to evaluate the effectiveness of the devices and methods that use these devices from a perspective of reduction and death of microorganisms. One of the outcome analysis methods used included the determination of bacterial viability using adenosine triphosphate (ATP) bioluminescence and total plaque counts. Adequate dilutions of baseline samples were made in 0.1% peptone water. The kidney and post-rinse samples were neutralized to stop antimicrobial activities and were diluted in a PO4 neutralizer. Mouthpieces substantially similar to those shown in figures 16 to 19 (universal mouthpiece) and figures 20 to 23 (with custom fit) were used in the test, one of each having been tested using water and the other with Cool Mint Listerine® mouthwash (CML ).

[000228] Total cell counts measuring colony-forming units (CFU / ml), including total viable bacterial cells and total viable bad breath causing organisms, were used. The samples taken from the individuals were incubated under anaerobic conditions for 5 days at 35 to 37 ° C. The relative light unit (RLU) is a measure of the amount of ATP in a sample. The higher the RLU value, the more ATP is present, and the more bacteria are present. Total cell counts (CFU / ml) and RLU were determined for each sample taken from individuals before (baseline) and after rinsing, as well as in the kidneys collected after rinsing.

Conclusões[000229] The subjects rinsed the oral cavity with 5 ml of water for 10 seconds. The baseline example was collected by making the individual expector the rinse water in a conical tube and then expectorate an additional 1 ml of saliva into this tube. Then, each individual rinsed the oral cavity, 2 with water using the respective mouthpiece designs, and 2 with Cool Mint Listerine using the respective mouthpiece designs. The kidney was then collected for each individual and 20 mL was placed in a conical tube. Each individual then repeated the rinse with 5 mL of water for 10 seconds and, as before, the rinse and post-rinse sample was collected in a conical tube. The samples were neutralized, diluted, plated and then incubated for 5 days and cell and ATP counts were measured. The results are shown in tables 1 to 3. Individual 1 BL used water as the liquid and the universal mouthpiece. Individual 2 BL used water as the liquid and the custom-fit mouthpiece. Individual 3 BL used CML as the liquid and the universal mouthpiece. The BL 4 individual used CML as the liquid and the custom-fit mouthpiece.

Conclusions

[000230] The data from the post-rinse plate count to the water rinse and CML rinse demonstrate a significant approximate reduction. Analysis of the kidney plaque count data also demonstrates a significant reduction from baseline in water rinsing, and an even more significant reduction from baseline in CML rinsing. Logarithmic reductions in the water kidney suggest mechanical bacterial removal during treatment in the absence of antimicrobials. The greater logarithmic reductions present in the CML kidney suggest a combination of mechanical and antimicrobial activity during treatment.

[000231] Although several modalities have been described, it should be understood that the scope of the present invention covers other possible variations, being limited only by the contents of the attached embodiments, which include the possible equivalents.

Claims (11)

1. Device (100, 1200) for directing a liquid over a plurality of surfaces of a mammalian oral cavity characterized by the fact that it comprises: a chamber (154, 1254) to hold the liquid close to the plurality of surfaces, the chamber (154, 1254) being defined by internal front and rear walls (116, 118, 1216, 1218) and an internal base wall (1250) of the device, the base wall (1250) extending between the front and rear internal walls (116, 118, 1216, 1218), but not comprising a membrane for sealing the rear gum (1158) defining the chamber (154, 1254), the internal front and rear walls (116, 118, 1216, 1218) comprising a plurality of openings (132, 134, 1232, 1234), a first pipe (146, 1246) to contain a first portion of the liquid and supply the first portion to the chamber (154, 1254) through the openings (132, 1232) of the inner wall (116, 1216), a second pipe (148, 1248) to contain a single second portion of the liquid and supply the second portion to the chamber (154, 1254) through the openings (134, 1234) of the rear inner wall (118, 1218), a first port (144, 1244) to transport the first portion of the liquid to and from the first pipe (146, 1246), a second port (142, 1242) for transporting the second portion of the liquid to and from the second pipe (148, 1248); and means for providing an effective seal of the device within the oral cavity. 2. Device according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that it still comprises means for securing the device to means for supplying liquid to the device. Device according to claim 2, characterized in that the fixing means comprise a quick disconnect structure (1110) for fixing the device to the means for supplying liquid to the device. 4. Device according to claim 2, characterized in that the fixing means comprise a support plate (1108) fixedly fixed in front of the device and having the first and second doors (1142, 1144) extending therethrough, the support plate (1108) comprising a structure for attaching the device to the means for supplying liquid to the device. 5. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises a plurality of frontal lumens (1102a, 1102b, 1102c, 1102d) connected by the first pipe (146, 1246) and a plurality of rear lumens (1102e, 1102f , 1102g) connected by the second pipe (148, 1248). 6. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the number, location and geometry in cross section of the openings (132, 134, 1232, 1234) are effective in providing an effective spray pattern to provide a beneficial effect on the oral cavity. 7. Device according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that it comprises an upper part and a lower part to provide simultaneous contact of a plurality of surfaces of both the upper and lower sections of the oral cavity. 8. Device, according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the geometry in cross section of the openings (132, 134, 1232, 1234) is selected from the group consisting of circular, elliptical and trapezoidal. 9. Device according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that it comprises a single piece for providing contact of the plurality of surfaces to an upper or lower section of the oral cavity. 10. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the base wall (1250) comprises a flexible membrane to provide an effective seal. 11. Device according to claim 10, characterized in that it comprises a membrane for sealing the flexible gingiva to provide effective sealing.

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